2023 Outback Queensland Travellers Guide

CREATE YOUR PERFECT OUTBACK QUEENSLAND ADVENTURE

Majestic gorges, ancient culture, natural wonders, unique events and unrivalled attractions – this vast land of contrasts is like no other place in the world!

There’s so much to discover that your personal Outback Queensland adventure is truly yours to design. We cater for every interest, so whether you want to unravel your swag and camp under a glorious canopy of stars, glamp in luxury or take a fully escorted tour we’ve got you covered.

Check out this guide for ideas to plan your trip, including some of our ‘must do’ new experiences and family-friendly activities. If you love nature and views then don’t miss the opportunity to take a drive, scenic flight or hike to witness breathtaking landscapes awash with wildflowers and colour after the rains of 2022.

In support of 2023 as the Year of Accessible Tourism, be assured most of our iconic Outback attractions and many of our experiences are access friendly.

The best way to explore the region is a road trip. We’ve got fabulous driving itineraries to help you plan your ideal route, with QR codes so you can view more details via our website. And of course this is dinosaur country so a trip here isn’t complete without at least one paleo-themed excursion!

Take a look and start planning your unique and unforgettable Outback Queensland adventure.

Acknowledgement of Country

Outback Queensland Tourism Association acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.

We celebrate First Nations tourism and cultural experiences that foster learning, respect and understanding in the telling of Outback Queensland’s story and those of the traditional custodians of this land.

Outback Queensland Tourism has compiled and produced this publication in the interests of fostering and developing tourism in Queensland. No part of this publication (advertising or editorial) may be reproduced without written permission of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association Inc. ©OQTA 2023.

No responsibility is accepted for information contained in advertisements or editorial. The inclusion or exclusion of any establishment does not indicate any recommendation or otherwise on the part of the Association which, in addition, does not hold itself responsible for any complaints relating to such establishments or businesses. However, we would welcome constructive comments from visitors to the region and these should be addressed to: CEO, Outback Queensland Tourism Association, PO Box 506, Longreach

Outback Queensland: big skies, bigger adventures!

Cover Channel Country near Windorah. Image credit: Lisa Alexander Photography, award-winning photographer based in Blackall. Right Outback Queensland Masters

QLD 4730

Photos: courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland, Queensland Government and other tourism partners and Councils in Outback Queensland.

There are unlimited ways to explore Outback Queensland – but to get you started we’ve curated 160 new and favourite experiences you can enjoy on your Outback adventure. We cover family fun, dinosaurs, museums, Indigenous culture, glamping, spas and baths, fossicking and much more… How many of these will you tick off on your next trip to the Outback?

Turraburra

OUTBACK RAIL ADVENTURE, LONGREACH

Climb aboard a beautifully restored 1970’s heritage Rail Motor for a ride through stunning landscapes, the flood plains of the Thomson River and Ilfracombe. Available from Outback Aussie Tours, May 2023 – experiences vary from 1 to 4 hours.

HERITAGE ROOFTOP ROOMS, HOTEL CORONES, CHARLEVILLE

Follow in the footsteps of legendary aviator Amy Johnson and revel in thirties style luxury with a stay in one of three new rooms with access to the Hotel’s outdoor rooftop Champagne bath deck.

NEW OUTBACK EXPERIENCES IN 2023

Add some new Outback experiences to your travel bucket list!

HELI FLIGHTS, LONGREACH TO WINTON

View the Channel Country from the air with a guided helicopter flight with Queensland Helicopters that touches down for a delicious, locally sourced picnic. Or visit the land of the dinosaurs in style – landing on the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum’s helipad.

LANARIUM RETREAT, THALLON

Relax in the beautiful bush setting of this luxurious private retreat on a working cattle and grain farm. Your group of up to seven guests will enjoy an all-inclusive package of activities, breakfast hampers, a gourmet sunset hamper and a selection of beverages on arrival.

MUNGINDI SCULPTURE TRAIL, MUNGINDI

Featuring magnificent sculptures by award-winning artist, the late Tony ‘Nicko’ McMillan, this 2.5km free nature trail crosses the QLD and NSW border. Information about each piece is provided. Begin at the Barwon River Park campsite.

DESERT GATEWAY DIRT BIKE TOURS, THARGOMINDAH

Explore the stunning Channel Country desert on a unique guided dirt bike tour. Choose a six-day Enduro Tour or three-day Experience visiting historic stations and landmarks, iconic pubs, red desert dunes, national parks and more along the way. BYO bike or hire option available.

UNDERGROUND HOSPITAL & MUSEUM TOUR, MOUNT ISA

Take an immersive guided tour of a real-life underground World War II hospital. Hear fascinating wartime stories, explore hidden passageways and wards, and perhaps meet some original staff and patients.

4WD CAR HIRE, REGIONAL QUEENSLAND

Great news if you want to explore Outback

Queensland by car! From April, weekend and short-stay 4WD hire packages will be available through REX Airlines. Pick-up and drop-off points include Quilpie, St George, Cunnamulla and Thargomindah, with more to follow.

MITCHELL GRASS RETREAT –‘LITTLE TIN SHED’ FUNCTION VENUE, LONGREACH

This fabulous new and fully accessible facility seats up to 50 guests and includes bar facilities and a commercial kitchen making it ideal for all kinds of events.

Clients can be connected to local catering, bar and transport suppliers. Opens 1 April 2023.

BLACKALL SALEYARD TOURS

Experience the unique history, heritage and atmosphere of Outback Queensland’s iconic saleyards – look out for new tours coming in 2023!

CHINAMAN CREEK DAM, CLONCURRY

The perfect spot for picnics, water sports and fishing for BIG Barra, this Outback oasis now features newly upgraded facilities including a playground, boat ramp, amenities, swimming and picnic areas.

ININGAI NATURE RESERVE, LONGREACH

Named in honour of the Iningai Traditional Owners, this beautiful nature reserve will be enhanced with a brandnew walking trail and new information boards along its three existing trails. Due for completion in April 2023.

THE LAKE, QUILPIE

A newly renovated one-bedroom cottage is the latest addition to The Lake at Quilpie. Relax with a soak in artesian water in your own private bathhouse and delight in the 180-degree views of this stunning lakeside property.

OUTBACK PIONEERS’ STARLIGHT RIVER CRUISE, LONGREACH

Step aboard the historic ‘Pride of the Murray’ paddlewheeler for a sunset cruise along the Thomson River. Or take a nostalgic stagecoach ride into the bush at sunset, including refreshments and a 2-course dinner with your stagecoach driver.

CUNNAMULLA HOT SPRINGS, CUNNAMULLA

Scheduled to open in June 2023, this sensational new experience beside the Warrego River will feature a precinct of seven pools filled with mineral and vitamin rich artesian water, naturally warmed from the Artesian Basin. The ultimate Outback chill-out!

ROMA BUTTER FACTORY MUSEUM TOUR, ROMA

Have a cuppa and take a self-guided tour to learn about the factory’s history. Open Wednesdays between 9.30am and 12pm. Gold coin entry fee.

AYRSHIRE DOWNS CARAVAN & CAMPING, NEAR WINTON

Get a real taste of the Outback on this working cattle and sheep property 58km from Winton and accessible by all-weather roads. The dog-friendly campsite sits alongside picturesque Wokingham Creek. Facilities include cold showers and toilets, covered picnic area, fire pits and the option of a historic property tour.

WWII SECRET AIRBASE STAGE 2, CHARLEVILLE

Take a journey through wartime Charleville with new immersive and interactive exhibitions opening in March 2023.

CRACKUP SISTERS HOUSE, WINTON

Celebrate Outback art, book a sleepover, try a workshop or watch a show – check out what’s happening at this quirky new icon when you’re in town.

OUTBACK AT ISA BUSHTUCKER EXPERIENCE, MOUNT ISA

WESTERN QUEENSLAND SPIRIT –CELLAR DOOR, ROMA

This former grape and citrus farm is now a craft distillery producing gin and vodka. The Cellar Door is on track to open at Easter 2023 so pop by for a delicious blend infused with the natural flavours of Outback Queensland.

Learn about the myriad of ways native plants have been used for everything from food and medicine to crafts, clothing and shelter, on a walk with an Indigenous heritage bush guide through Outback at Isa’s beautiful native botanical garden.

BLACKALL WOOLSCOUR DROVER’S CAMP & NEW EXHIBITS, BLACKALL

Gain an insight of how drovers lived and worked at the Woolscour in the 1900s through the new Drover’s Dining & Shearer’s exhibit and outdoor Drover’s Camp –with camp oven dinners. Opens March 2023.

NEW EVENTS IN 2023

Art, music, rodeo, sports, shows and festivals... there’s always something happening in Outback Queensland. Check out these new events launching in 2023.

FESTIVAL OF OUTBACK SKIES, HUGHENDEN 28-30 April 2023

Inspired by the Outback skies, this event celebrates the people of the North West region and the things they love to do! Featuring arts, water sports, bull riding, tours, dancing, food, stargazing and a lantern parade.

OUTBACK RIVER LIGHTS FESTIVAL, CUNNAMULLA 13 – 15 April 2023

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and art of the Paroo Shire through light, storytelling and the strong connection to water. Featuring free and ticketed events, join the locals in exploring through art, music, storytelling and light, and what connection to place means in the Outback.

STARS OF CHARLOTTE PLAINS, CUNNAMULLA 23 – 26 June 2023

This working sheep station and hugely popular camping ground presents an extra special camping weekend to mark 100 years of family ownership. Family friendly activities include live music, a themed fun run, movie night, talent show, yabby delve, artesian baths and lots more.

LADY SINGS THE MAROONS, OPERA QUEENSLAND, REGIONAL TOUR

15 May – 3 June 2023

Dive into the Queensland songbook and celebrate some of Australia’s most loved artists – from The Saints and Gladys Moncrieff, to Savage Garden – with songs performed by the phenomenal Jess Hitchcock, Irena Lysiuk and Marcus Corowa.

KIRRENDERRI, HEART OF THE CHANNEL COUNTRY EXHIBITIONS, BILOELA AND BIRDSVILLE

ROAD TO RODEO MOUNT ISA –RODEO AND ROCK CONCERT, MOUNT ISA 7th May 2023

An action-packed day of fun with thrills, spills, live entertainment and all your rodeo favourites.

Until 24 March (Biloela), 15 April – 16 July 2023 (Birdsville) Through recent archaeological discoveries and 130 years of First Nations and settler stories, explore the resilience of relationships forged on the Channel Country and their continuing ties to Country, the cattle and supporting industries.

MIRUSIA UNDER THE STARS, BALDY TOP, QUILPIE 26 August 2023

World-renowned Australian Soprano Mirusia performs her Songbird show under the canopy of a million-star sky at this famous elevated lookout. The show will feature inspiring songs that are sure to create wonderful memories. Bus transfers to Baldy Top will be available.

Mithaka stone arrangement far south west Queensland 2021

Photo L. Mechielsen. Courtesy Mithaka Aboriginal Corporation

EVENTS

CHECK OUT MORE OUTBACK EVENTS AND OUR FULL LIST ONLINE. DETAILS CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PRINTING.

Plan your Outback Queensland holiday around some of our fun, quirky and unforgettable events in 2023. Mix with the locals for a taste of country life at iconic rodeos and musters, horse and camel racing, country shows, food and craft markets, car rallies and sports events. Experience film, music, dance and art set amongst some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. Pick your favourites and combine them to create a memorable trip of a lifetime.

Getting to Outback Queensland is easy, with daily flights to major regional Outback towns, including Roma, Charleville, Mount Isa and Longreach, with other regional services offered weekly.

Alternatively, arrive by train, bus, or take a road trip to explore via wellmaintained highways and sealed roads, or grab your 4WD and head off-thebeaten track.

FOR MORE DETAILS ON ALL OUR LOCAL SHOWS, RACING, RODEO AND CAMPDRAFT EVENTS SEE HERE:

Local Shows Racing, Rodeo & Campdraft Events:

january

1 ST JAN – 15TH APR LONGREACH

Out of This World: Australia in the Space Age

february

3RD – 24TH MAR BILOELA

Kirrenderri: Heart of the Channel Country exhibition

23RD MOUNT ISA

Mount Isa Day

25TH – 26TH ST GEORGE

Battle on the Balonne

march

3RD – 4TH DIRRANBANDI

Dirranbandi Show & Campdraft

11TH THALLON

Grazing at the Watering Hole

11TH ROMA

Dancing Under the Stars Ball

11TH – 7 TH MAY WINTON

John Villiers Outback Art Prize Exhibition

19TH CHARLEVILLE

Charleville Triathlon

24TH – 25TH ROMA

Roma Picnic Races & Ball

24TH – 26TH ST GEORGE McIntyre 900

25TH CLONCURRY

Cloncurry & District Races

31 ST – 1 ST APR WINTON

Winton Way Out West Fest

31ST – 2ND APR ADAVALE

Adavale Muster in the Mulga

31ST – 8TH OCT WINTON

The Royal Theatre weekly movie season

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, Mount Isa

Festival of Outback Opera 2022, Australian Age of Dinosaurs

april

1 ST EULO

Eulo Motorbike Gymkhana

6TH ROMA

Roma’s Easter in the Country Festival

6TH – 9TH BURKE & WILLS

Burke & Wills Campdraft

7 TH – 9TH EROMANGA

Eromanga Campdraft & Rodeo

7 TH – 9TH BOULIA

Boulia Races, Rodeo and Campdraft

8TH & 15TH MAXWELTON

Maxi Races

8TH – 9TH ST GEORGE

Easter in the Vines

8TH – 9TH TOOMPINE

Toompine Easter Gunshoot 2023

8TH – 10TH AUGATHELLA

Augathella Diggers Rodeo, Billycart Derby and Race

11TH – 15TH CLONCURRY

Australian Campdraft Association

Finals – Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge & Campdraft

13TH ST GEORGE

Queensland Music Trail: Oasis Afternoon

13 – 15TH CUNNAMULLA

Outback River Lights Festival

14TH – 15TH THANGOOL

Thangool Fly In Race Day

14TH – 16TH THARGOMINDAH

Channel Country Challenge

15TH – 16TH JUL BIRDSVILLE

Kirrenderri: Heart of the Channel Country exhibition

15TH CUNNAMULLA

Queensland Music Trail: Light It Up

19TH – 20TH CHARLEVILLE

Queensland Music Trail: Swing On In Dance Workshops

Queensland Music Trail: The Big Base Party

20TH – 24TH BIRDSVILLE

Gulf to Gulf Northbound Cycle

21 ST TAMBO

Queensland Music Trail: The Sundowner

21 ST – 23RD JULIA CREEK

Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival

21 ST – 23RD INJUNE

Injune Campdraft

Betoota Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana

28TH – 30TH HUGHENDEN

Festival of Outback Skies

29TH TAMBO

Tambo Stock Show

29TH QUILPIE

Quilpie Diggers Race Club Quilpie Cup

30TH ST GEORGE St George Show

may

1 ST – 2ND TAROOM

The Taroom Show

5TH – 6TH BLACKALL

The Annual Blackall Show

6TH MOUNT ISA

Mount Isa 100 Years Reunion

Gala Dinner

7 TH MOUNT ISA

Road to Rodeo Mount Isa –Rodeo and Rock Concert

11TH – 13TH ROMA

Roma Show

11TH – 15TH CHARLEVILLE

2023 Rail-Road-Ride Stage 2

13TH – 14TH BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Campdraft, Rodeo & Bronco Branding

13TH TAMBO

Opera Queensland: The Sounds of Sunset

14TH BLACKALL

Opera Queensland: Sing Sing Sing

15TH CLONCURRY

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

15TH – 16TH MITCHELL

Mitchell Show

16TH MOUNT ISA

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

16TH WINTON

Festival of Outback Opera –

Festival Opening

17 TH WINTON

Festival of Outback Opera –Sing, Sing, Sing

18TH WINTON

Festival of Outback Opera –Long Lunch

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

18TH – 19TH MITCHELL

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus

18TH – 20TH CHARLEVILLE

Charleville Show

18TH – 21 ST EULO

Music in the Mulga

19TH WINTON

Festival of Outback Opera: Dark Sky Serenade

19TH – 20TH BILOELA

Callide Valley Show

19TH – 25TH LONGREACH

Min Min Lights, 2023 Rail-Road-Ride Stage 3

20TH CUNNAMULLA

Cunnamulla Races

20TH LONGREACH

Festival of Outback Opera: Singing in the Night

21 ST LONGREACH

Festival of Outback Opera: Sing, Sing, Sing

Festival of Outback Opera: Opera Ball

22ND LONGREACH

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

23RD JUNDAH

Opera Queensland: The Long Way Home

23RD BARCALDINE

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

24TH BLACKALL

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

26TH CUNNAMULLA

Cunnamulla Show

26TH – 27 TH THARGOMINDAH

Shearer’s Shindig

26TH – 27 TH BEDOURIE

Bedourie Golf Open

27 TH QUILPIE

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

27 TH CLONCURRY

Cloncurry & District Races

27 TH TAMBO

Tambo Races

27 TH – 28TH RICHMOND

Richmond Golf Club Open

27 TH – 28TH BOLLON

Bollon Polocrosse Carnival

28TH – 8TH JUN MOUNT ISA

The Gulf Country,

2023 Rail-Road-Ride Stage 4

30TH CHARLEVILLE

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

june

3RD ROMA

Opera Queensland: Lady Sings the Maroons

3RD HUNGERFORD

Hungerford Field Day

9TH – 10TH RICHMOND

Richmond Field Days and Races

10TH INJUNE

Injune Cup Races

14TH BOLLON

Bollon Polocrosse Carnival

16TH – 17 TH CLONCURRY

Cloncurry and District Show

17 TH BARCALDINE

Barcaldine Show

17 TH – 18TH ST GEORGE

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 1

17 TH – 16TH SEPT ROMA

Sculptures Out Back

18TH CHARLEVILLE

Junior Fishing Competition

20TH – 19TH JUL BIRDSVILLE

Gulf to Gulf Southbound

23RD – 1 ST JUL WINTON

Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival

23RD – 26TH CUNNAMULLA

Stars of Charlotte Plains

24TH TAMBO

Tambo Teddy Bears Picnic

24TH – 25TH BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana

24TH – 25TH CUNNAMULLA

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 2

24TH – 25TH BIRDSVILLE

Simpson Desert Ultra

29TH – 2ND JUL CUNNAMULLA

Cunnamulla Rodeo School & Cunnamulla Fella Roundup

30TH – 2ND JUL BEDOURIE

Bedourie Campdraft, Rodeo & Gymkhana

july

1 ST CHARLEVILLE

Halfway There Shindig

1 ST EULO

Fire to Fork

1 ST – 2ND QUILPIE

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 3

4TH – 6TH BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Big Red Bash

7 TH – 8TH WINTON

Winton Opal Festival

8TH BEDOURIE

Bedourie Camel & Pig Races & Camp Oven Cook-off

8TH – 9TH RICHMOND

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 4

14TH – 16TH YOWAH

Yowah Opal Festival

14TH – 16TH BOULIA

Boulia Camel Races

15TH – 16TH KARUMBA

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 5

15TH – 16TH BILOELA

Annual Old Wheels in Motion Rally

15TH – 16TH THARGOMINDAH

Channel Country Music Muster

16TH MOUNT ISA

Queensland Symphony Orchestra

21 ST – 23RD HUGHENDEN

Hughenden Country Music Festival

21 ST – 23RD MOUNT ISA

Outback Queensland Masters –Round 6 ($1M Hole-in-one)

23RD THARGOMINDAH

Channel Country Music Muster

29TH RICHMOND

Richmond Rodeo

29TH CLONCURRY

Quamby Rodeo

29TH THEODORE

Theodore Bulls N Barrels Bonanza

29TH – 30TH HUGHENDEN

Hughenden Rugby 7’s

august

1 ST ROMA

Queensland Symphony Orchestra

4TH – 6TH CLONCURRY

Curry Merry Muster Festival

5TH RICHMOND

Hughes Earthmoving

Diggers Day Races

5TH – 11TH ARAMAC

Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail

Adventure Trek

9TH MOUNT ISA

Isa Street Festival

10TH MOUNT ISA

Mount Isa Mines Indigenous

Rodeo Championships

10TH – 13TH MOUNT ISA

The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo

12TH – 13TH QUILPIE

Quilpie Sporting Clays Club

Annual Carnival

14TH – 22ND YULEBA

Cobb & Co Festival

17 TH – 20TH BLACKALL

Better in Blackall Festival

17 TH – 20TH BEDOURIE

Bedourie Bikehana

18TH – 19TH MOURA

Moura Coal and Country Festival

19TH – 20TH CHARLEVILLE

The Camp Oven Classic

19TH – 20TH QUILPIE

Quilpie Open Golf Weekend

23RD – 27 TH CHARLEVILLE

Charleville Performing Arts Festival

24TH – 28TH HUGHENDEN

Hughenden Campdraft

25TH – 27 TH CAMOOWEAL

Drover’s Camp Festival

25TH – 27 TH BETOOTA

Simpson Desert Racing Carnival –Betoota Races Weekend

26TH QUILPIE

Mirusia Under the Stars

26TH RICHMOND

Richmond Bush Sprints

26TH THALLON

Thallon Truck Pull

29TH QUILPIE

Kangaranga Do Street Party

september

1 ST – 2ND BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Races

1 ST – 3RD RICHMOND

Richmond Campdraft & Richmond Pony Club Gymkhana

3RD BIRDSVILLE

Simpson Desert Racing Carnival

8TH – 9TH QUILPIE

Quilpie & District Show & Rodeo

8TH – 9TH MITCHELL

Booringa Festival

8TH – 10TH CLONCURRY

Cloncurry Beat The Heat Festival

9TH MORVEN

Morven Races

9TH ST GEORGE

Sip Under the Stars

9TH BEDOURIE

Bedourie Races

9TH – 10TH NINDIGULLY

Nindigully Campdraft

10TH CHARLEVILLE

National Bilby Day Festival

16TH – 17 TH THARGOMINDAH

Thargomindah Motorbike

Sports & Enduro

19TH – 23RD WINTON

Outback Festival

23RD – 24TH QUILPIE

Quilpie Motorbike

Gymkhana & Enduro

25TH – 29TH BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville vs Bedourie Cricket Match

29TH – 1 ST OCT ST GEORGE

Dragon Country Sandgreen Cup

29TH – 2ND OCT TOOMPINE

Welcome Back to Toompine

30TH – 1 ST OCT HUNGERFORD

Hungerford Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana

october

1 ST CHARLEVILLE

Wind on the Warrego Festival

7 TH RICHMOND

Richmond Turf Club Picnic Races

7 TH – 8TH NOCCUNDRA

Noccundra Campdraft, Rodeo & Motorbike Gymkhana

13TH – 14TH WINTON

OktoberWest

28TH RICHMOND

Ladies Day Races

november

4TH – 7 TH CHARLEVILLE

Charleville Cup Festival & Races

11TH HUNGERFORD

Hungerford Remembrance Day

11TH QUILPIE

Remembrance Day

25TH NINDIGULLY

Nindigully Pig Races

december

1 ST THARGOMINDAH

Christmas in the Bulloo Markets & Christmas Tree

31 ST MITCHELL

Mitchell New Year’s Eve Rodeo

31 ST ROMA

Maranoa New Year’s Spectacular

31 ST CAMERON CORNER

Cameron Corner New Year’s Eve Party

Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival, Julia Creek

DINOSAUR KINGDOM

Take a trip into Australia’s prehistoric past. There are plenty of ways to indulge your inner palaeontologist in Outback Queensland. Fill an entire weekend – or longer – with these prehistoric giants.

LARK QUARRY CONSERVATION PARK, NEAR WINTON

Explore the site of ancient hunter and prey interaction with a walk through the fossil remains of a dinosaur stampede caused by a carnivorous theropod stalking over 150 chicken-sized coelurosaurs and emu-sized ornithopods.

BARCOO

You’ll be yelling Crikey! when you see the life-sized replica model of the Isisfordia duncani – a giant ancestor of the crocodile, displayed along with a 100-million-year-old Bulldog Fish and fossilised fauna, flora, reptiles and birds from the region.

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Meet Titanosaur ‘Cooper’, Australia’s largest dinosaur (aged 95 to 98 million years old); get handson with a visit to a dinosaur or megafauna dig site; or learn how to prepare ancient fossils in the lab. With accommodation available on-site you can stay awhile too.

EROMANGA NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, EROMANGA Watch video here

INTERPRETATION CENTRE, ISISFORD

AUSTRALIAN AGE OF DINOSAURS MUSEUM, WINTON

Watch video here

Travel through time at the world’s largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection that includes ‘Banjo’ and ‘Matilda’, two of our most complete dinosaur skeletons. Tour the exhibits, preparation lab and March of the Titanosaurs exhibition, and walk through Dinosaur Canyon with its life-sized dinosaur replicas. There’s also the Gondwana Stars Observatory, one of the country’s best places to view the night sky.

THE STONE HOUSE, BOULIA

Visit this collection of marine reptile fossils to delve deep into the Cretaceous Era and the ancient inland Eromanga Sea in which these fascinating marine creatures once swam.

Watch video here

Encounter the marine greats and see palaeontology in action at this incredible museum housing almost 1,150 unique fossil specimens from the Richmond area. Browse the displays, watch fossils being prepared in the laboratory or become a palaeontologist for the day at their free fossicking site.

Nature and history come together at the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh fossil deposit. Discover the ancient ancestors of our native wildlife, from the largest freshwater crocodile to feather-tailed possums and kangaroos with sharp teeth.

BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK, VIA MOUNT ISA

KRONOSAURUS KORNER MUSEUM, RICHMOND

FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT OUTBACK QUEENSLAND’S DINOSAUR ATTRACTIONS, PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE: OUTBACKQUEENSLAND.COM.AU /CATEGORY/DINOSAURS

FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE AND MUSEUM, HUGHENDEN

Say Hi to ‘Hughie’, a life-sized skeletal Muttaburrasaurus and explore the impressive international fossil collections, interactive displays and Australian dino bones found on digs in the area.

MUTTABURRASAURUS INTERPRETATION CENTRE, MUTTABURRA

Muttaburra’s greatest claim to fame is the fossilised skeleton of the Muttaburrasaurus langdoni found by local Doug Langdon. The land living, plant eating dinosaur lived 100 million years ago and is celebrated with a statue – don’t forget to have your photo taken with this Queensland giant!

RIVERSLEIGH FOSSIL DISCOVERY CENTRE, MOUNT ISA

Immerse yourself in the interactive displays of important finds from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area at the Outback at Isa museum; walk through the diorama for a sense of how the area looked 25 million years ago; learn from palaeontologists in the movie theatre; and take a guided tour of the fossil laboratory.

Top 5 reasons to meet a dinosaur this year

1. Get up close and personal in the lab to learn how the fossils are repaired and documented; or do some hands on fossil sorting with your enthusiastic fossil guide at Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre

2. Visit the Flinders Discovery Centre to check out an impressive fossil collection and a great light and sound show which will introduce you to nearby Porcupine Gorge –make sure you check out the Muttaburrasaurus fossil!

3. Learn to work on fossils with museum-trained technicians and measure up against Australia’s Largest Dinosaur ‘Cooper’ at Eromanga Natural History Museum.

4. Visit awe-inspiring marine creatures such as ‘Penny’ the Richmond plesiosaur and take a sel e with ‘Krono’ Kronosaurus queenslandicus – a 10 metre, giant marine reptile at Kronosaurus Korner – who knew that the Outback used to be home to an inland sea?!

5. Check out the “March of the Titanosaurs” exhibition at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs – housing Australia’s bestpreserved sauropod tracksite and stay for the evening to experience the Gondwana Stars Observatory.

Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre, Mount Isa

Korner

Flinders Discovery Centre, Hughenden

Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton

Eromanga Natural History Museum, Eromanga

Kronosaurus Korner, Richmond

Dinosaur Stampede National Monument, Winton

GET SET FOR FAMILY FUN!

Create lifelong memories with a family holiday packed with fun and adventure in Outback Queensland.

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THE GREAT ARTESIAN SPA, MITCHELL

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THE BIG RIG, ROMA Watch video here

Follow the history of gas and oil exploration in Roma with a visit to the Big Rig, Bigger Big Rig Observation Tower and Tree Walk, or catch the night show.

Relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul. And a great place for kids to relax, have fun and cool off. 42

ARTESIAN TIME TUNNEL, CUNNAMULLA

Learn the 100-million-year-old secrets of the Artesian Basin’s life sustaining waters.

COSMOS CENTRE, CHARLEVILLE

Observe the planets up close – and even the sun – through state-of-the-art telescopes.

44 CHARLEVILLE BILBY EXPERIENCE, CHARLEVILLE

See super cute bilbies in their nocturnal house and learn about species threats and the successful breeding and release program.

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QUILPETA NIGHT SHOW, QUILPIE

Catch the story of Quilpie, its dinosaurs, Indigenous peoples, opals and pastoral settlement on a supersized outdoor screen. Tues, Thu, Sun (Mar-Oct).

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CUNNAMULLA ALL ABOARD, CUNNAMULLA Watch video here

Take a memorable journey through Outback history with this new sound and light show hosted by a holographic Station Master.

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EROMANGA NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, EROMANGA

Be amazed by Australian dinosaurs, megafauna, microfauna and plants; learn to prep fossils and join fossil digs.

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BIRDSVILLE HOTEL AND THE BIRDSVILLE COURTHOUSE MUSEUM, BIRDSVILLE

Watch video here

You can’t visit Birdsville without dropping into the iconic Birdsville Pub! And don’t miss the Courthouse housed in a historic stone building that served as the police station and courthouse from the late 1800s. This new experience reveals tales of crime and punishment in Outback Queensland’s past.

MIN MIN ENCOUNTER, BOULIA

A unique theatrical experience based on the famous light phenomenon featuring animatronics, fibre optics and loads of high-tech wizardry.

TAMBO TEDDIES, TEDDY BEAR PICNIC, TAMBO

Find the true softies of Outback Queensland at this legendary store – they are very well known for stealing your heart!

51 BARCALDINE REC PARK, BARCALDINE

DRIVE-IN THEATRE, JERICHO, NEAR BARCALDINE

Head to Jericho to discover the world’s smallest drive-in. Movies are screened once a month and there’s space for just 36 cars plus walk-ins.

AUSTRALIAN WORKERS

There’s water sports galore at this 1.1km long lake built to international and Australian water-skiing standards.

WALTZING MATILDA CENTRE, WINTON

A song that lives in the hearts of all Australians. Exhibits, historic buildings and artworks tell the Waltzing Matilda and Outback story.

HERITAGE CENTRE, BARCALDINE

Watch video here

Wander through landscaped gardens featuring original historic structures, including a one-teacher school, railway station, police watch house and post office – with exhibits, café and gift shop to keep everyone happy.

JUMBO THE ELEPHANT, BLACKALL

Blackall is the birthplace of the Perry Bros Circus, the first to circumnavigate Australia. Relive the fun and magic of the circus with a visit to ‘Jumbo’ in Banks Park.

THE ROYAL THEATRE, WINTON

Check out what’s on at the iconic open-air theatre. The Gold Winner of the 2022 Queensland Tourism Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group has been entertaining families since 1918.

FAMILY EVENTS

Check out our events list online for all details and dates.

Nowhere beats the Outback for fun and quirky events that will entertain the whole family! There are too many to list right here, but make sure you add them to your travel plans. Activities include camel races, dunny races, live music, dancing, night and light shows, movies, country hospitality and more.

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LAKE FRED TRITTON, RICHMOND

Drop by for a day of fun at the playground and waterpark – shaded spaces, lawns and free BBQ facilities make it the perfect spot for a family picnic.

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AUSTRALIAN AGE OF DINOSAURS MUSEUM, WINTON

Take your dino-loving kids on an awesome adventure through time!

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KRONOSAURUS KORNER, RICHMOND

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QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM, LONGREACH

Have heaps of fun learning about the extraordinary history of our national airline.

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LAKE CALLIDE, BILOELA

Fishing, camping, swimming, canoeing, picnic and recreation area, and playground –guaranteed fun for the whole family!

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HARD TIMES MINE UNDERGROUND TOUR, MOUNT ISA

Watch video here

Throw on your safety gear and descend into the depths for a guided tour of this replica mine at Outback at Isa.

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FARMSTAYS

Experience real Outback hospitality and life on the land! There’s lots of ways to stay, from bush camping and glamping to fully-catered homesteads and cabins. Whether you choose a working cattle or sheep station, country food experiences, wildlife spotting, and finish the day with roasting marshmallows over your campfire.

Famous for a collection of awe-inspiring marine reptile fossils and ‘Penny the pliosaur’ – every photographer’s delight.

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AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME & OUTBACK HERITAGE CENTRE, LONGREACH

Retrace the footsteps and celebrate the lives and work of Australia’s stockmen and women.

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COBB & CO. STAGECOACH RIDE, LONGREACH

Climb aboard and follow the original Longreach mail route on a restored horsedrawn carriage.

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JOHN FLYNN PLACE MUSEUM & ART GALLERY, CLONCURRY

Watch video here

Take a step back in time and learn all about the importance of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

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OUTBACK SURFING

You don’t need an ocean to surf! Grab a boogie board or whatever you can use for a thrilling ride down a sand dune. Or drop into the Winton Outback Surf Club at the Winton Outback Motel to get a quirky photo with their hand-painted surfboards and help raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

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RIDGEE DIDGE CAFÉ, BARCALDINE

Owned by local Iningai woman, Cheryl Thompson, the café sells her own Indigenous coffee and a range of Indigenous products, while providing training and employment for Indigenous people.

Browse the Gallery for unique gifts, foods and First Nations artwork, and take a walking tour with proud Gwamu/Kooma elder Bill Speedy along tranquil Wallam Creek. Learn First Nations stories, history and culture, and try some bush tucker treats on this fascinating and fun excursion.

DISCOVER THE WORLD’S OLDEST CULTURE

Authentic cultural experiences celebrate the First Nations of Queensland and offer real insights into this ancient land and its people. Learn and connect with Indigenous culture through Dreamtime stories, art, music, dance, tours, bushtucker and more in Outback Queensland.

This 27-million-year-old treasure attracts around 70,000 visitors every year. Walk to see the ‘Art Gallery’ featuring over 2,000 paintings, ochre stencils and engravings along a 62-metre stretch of sandstone wall. Guided tours are available but ensure you book in advance.

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CUNNAMULLA FELLA CENTRE, CUNNAMULLA

Be transported to a time when the Eromanga Sea covered the Outback; discover local Indigenous people’s stories and culture; and view local artworks at the Art Gallery and Heritage Museum.

BETOOTA SERPENT, BETOOTA

Head off the regular tourist trails to Bedourie, Betoota and Birdsville to see this large-scale, open-air artwork created from stone and gibbers to tell women’s Dreamtime stories.

This 72,000-acre cattle station is a five-star retreat with many surprises, including its Indigenous rock paintings and stencils at Rainbow Cave and Arch Rock, and ancient blade indents at the Axe Factory. As there’s no general public access the tour must be prebooked.

SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND INDIGENOUS CULTURAL TRAIL

Explore Outback Queensland communities with sites significant to local Indigenous peoples on this route through Dirranbandi, St George, Surat, Roma, Mitchell, Charleville and Cunnamulla.

NULLAWOKKA FIRST NATIONS GALLERY & TOURS, BOLLON Watch video here

BOOBOOK ECO TOURS – WALLAROO OUTBACK RETREAT, CARNARVON RANGES

CARNARVON GORGE – CARNARVON NATIONAL PARK, INJUNE

CHARLEVILLE COSMOS CENTRE, CHARLEVILLE

Journey through the Cosmos with the ‘Universal Dreaming’ tour celebrating the connection of ancient cultures with the night sky. Available on request only. Stop in town to walk the 1km Indigenousdesigned ‘Waadyanana Pathway’ along the Warrego River.

MOUNT ISA INDIGENOUS RODEO CHAMPIONSHIPS (10 AUGUST 2023), MOUNT ISA

Get ready for an exciting event with rodeo action, music, dance, art and storytelling to celebrate the many visiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities taking part.

BUSH TUCKER GARDEN & TRAIL, CLONCURRY

The Mitakoodi people have a rich connection to the land around Cloncurry. Visit the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Centre and Museum to see Indigenous artefacts and explore the garden and trail to find honeyberries, pigweed and native gooseberries.

RED RIDGE, BLACKALL

This not-for-profit community organisation undertakes a variety of community and public art projects, including visual and performing arts, fashion design, craft and textiles. Buy some art as a memento of your Outback trip.

OUTBACK AT ISA BUSH TUCKER EXPERIENCE, MOUNT ISA

The nutritional and healing properties of native plants is a respected knowledge passed through generations of First Nations people for thousands of years. Walk with an Indigenous heritage bush guide through Outback at Isa’s botanical garden and fish hatchery to learn about the traditional use of native flora and fauna, and discover the significance and meaning of Indigenous artworks and artefacts in the history museum.

THE STAR OF TAROOM, TAROOM

This 160kg ancient sandstone rock is carved with a large, beautiful star. Only recently returned to Country, it is now located at the Wardingarri Keeping Place at the Taroom Historical Museum. Open by request only – call: 0409 663 701.

TURRABURRA, VIA BARCALDINE

Watch video here

The Iningai people share their ancient stories through a 200-metre-long natural wall featuring thousands of etchings, petroglyphs and paintings at Turraburra, formerly Gracevale Station near Barcaldine.

KIRRENDERRI, HEART OF THE CHANNEL COUNTRY EXHIBITION, BILOELA AND BIRDSVILLE

The Channel Country is an intersection for Aboriginal trade networks that connected Australia. The exhibition is presented by The University of Queensland Anthropology Museum, Mithaka Aboriginal Corporation and Diamantina Shire Council.

AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME, LONGREACH

Indigenous peoples have played an enormous role in the pastoral history of Outback Australia. The ‘Songlines and Stock Routes’ exhibit explains the origins of stock routes and features over 350 video stories and interviews with Indigenous stockmen and women from across the country.

DESERT DREAMING CENTRE & TRACKERS TOURS, BARCALDINE

In honour of the ‘Desert Mob’, Barcaldine’s original tribes that interconnected far across the region, the Centre offers Indigenous and paleo cultural experiences through exhibits, workshops and a day tour of Barcaldine.

DAY TOUR EXPERIENCES

Outback Queensland has a dizzying array of day tour options to suit every interest, from river cruises and scenic flights to immersive exhibitions, history, culture, nature and shows. Here’s a few ideas to help you plan your trip.

REMEMBER – BOOK AHEAD: DAY TOURS, KEY ATTRACTIONS AND MUSEUMS ARE ALWAYS POPULAR SO PLEASE PRE-BOOK TO AVOID MISSING OUT!

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COSMOS CENTRE STAR-GAZING EXPERIENCE, CHARLEVILLE

Search the galaxy and spot stars, planets – and even the sun –through high-tech telescopes.

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SANDYTOWN RIVER CRUISES, BALONNE

Enjoy a tranquil 2-hour river cruise and learn about the culture, flora and fauna of Balonne Shire.

BILBY EXPERIENCE, CHARLEVILLE

See endangered native bilbies and learn about their conservation during this highly popular tour.

DISCOVER CARNARVON RANGES OR ROMA TOWN TOURS, BOOBOOK ECOTOURS

Explore the stunning Ranges, Indigenous sites, rock art and nature with an ecologist as your guide. Or take a day tour around Roma.

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WWII SECRET BASE & TOUR, CHARLEVILLE

Watch video here

Discover the secrets of Charleville and its use as a WWII American military base. 91

OUTBACK DATE FARM, CHARLEVILLE

Find out more about this healthy fruit and finish with a cuppa and slice of homemade date loaf.

SMITHY’S OUTBACK DINNER & SHOW, LONGREACH

Dine under the stars and enjoy country hospitality, a camp oven dinner and live entertainment.

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SUNSET CRUISES, THOMSON RIVER, LONGREACH

Kick-back for a leisurely cruise on the mighty Thomson River as the sun sets and the stars come out.

QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM, LONGREACH

Peruse the exhibits, take a 747 Wing Walk and watch the amazing Luminescent Longreach show.

NOGO STATION EXPERIENCE, OUTBACK PIONEERS, LONGREACH

Get a taste of pastoral life, past and present on this working station 20 minutes from town.

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FIXED WING AND HELICOPTER

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COBB & CO. STAGECOACH RIDE, OUTBACK PIONEERS, LONGREACH

Watch video here

Head into the bush along the original Longreach mail route in a restored horse-drawn carriage.

AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME & STOCKMAN’S LIFE LIVE SHOW, LONGREACH

Watch video here

Take an immersive journey through Outback history and witness stockmen in action at the live show.

SELF-GUIDED WALKING TRAILS, ROMA, CLONCURRY AND THARGOMINDAH

Make some time to get to know these Outback towns on a walk through key local and historical sites.

NULLAWOKKA FIRST NATIONS TOUR AND GALLERY EXPERIENCE, BOLLON

Browse through the gallery and join Gwamu/Kooma elder Bill Speedy for a cultural river walk.

UNDERGROUND HOSPITAL TOURS, MOUNT ISA

Step beyond its well concealed doorway to explore this underground WWII hospital.

DINOSAUR STAMPEDE, LARK QUARRY CONSERVATION AREA AND WINTON REGION –RED DIRT TOURS, NEAR WINTON

Head off the beaten track to Merton Gorge and Lookouts, the Jumpups near Winton, and tour the tracks of fleeing dinosaurs.

TOURS – ELITE AVIATION SERVICES, WINTON REGION & QUEENSLAND HELICOPTERS, LONGREACH

View the unique and contrasting Outback landscape from the air through a variety of exciting experiences.

TRACKERS TOURS, BARCALDINE

Learn about past and present Indigenous culture with local Iningai woman Cheryl Thompson.

MOUNT ISA AND BEYOND, NORTH WEST TOURS, MOUNT ISA AND CLONCURRY

Choose from a range of tours to explore the history, flora, fauna and geology in and around Mount Isa.

ENJOY LIFE’S LUXURIES Glamping

If you prefer a few stars with your accommodation rating, the Outback will surprise you with a choice of boutique and luxury options.

RANGELANDS OUTBACK CAMP, WINTON

Watch video here Located on a jump-up, this cattle property offers eight unique tents with spectacular views, guaranteed remoteness, king-size beds, wholesome food and fine wines.

MITCHELL GRASS RETREAT, LONGREACH

Close to town and key local attractions, all 15 luxury tents come with private deck and ensuite, a huge tub and even bigger views. There’s also a pool – a true Outback luxury!

WALLAROO OUTBACK RETREAT, NEAR INJUNE

Watch video here

Luxurious glamping tents set amongst 100-year-old eucalyptus trees on a working cattle property next to the Carnarvon Ranges.

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SHANDONVALE STATION, BARCALDINE

SALTBUSH RETREAT, LONGREACH Luxurious and beautiful rustic spaces complete with an outdoor bath terrace for guests.

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MOBLE HOMESTEAD, QUILPIE

Kick-back at this luxurious mini oasis with bed and breakfast style accommodation and sumptuous food.

On a working cattle station near Barcaldine, this century-old property offers a glimpse of rural life, with all the creature comforts of the city.

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CLUB BOUTIQUE HOTEL, CUNNAMULLA

Safari glamping at its finest, with boho-inspired bell tents fitted with queen beds, soft linens and a bar fridge stocked with snacks.

LANARIUM RETREAT, THALLON

Sit back and relax or immerse yourself in activities, paddock-to-plate cuisine and more to make the most of your stay at this luxurious private retreat on ‘Shirbar,’ a working cattle and grain farm.

COOPER’S COUNTRY LODGE, EROMANGA

Nestled onsite at the Eromanga Natural History Museum, these modern, self-catering motel-style facilities include a BBQ and alfresco dining area, with breakfast hampers available to order.

THE LAKE, QUILPIE

This stunning lakeside property offers a wide range of accommodation options, from campsites and familyfriendly Shearers Quarters to its exquisite cottages – including one with a private artesian bath house.

THE STAGING POST, LONGREACH

A slice of history with heritage-themed rooms inspired by pioneer-era style and stagecoach travel.

GILBERTON OUTBACK RETREAT, GILBERTON RIVER

A station-stay experience with uninterrupted views of the Gilberton River from your private verandah bathtub.

LUXE FOOD, WINE AND TREATS

TOP SHOTS FROM 2022!

We just love these images! Here’s some of our most popular images shared by visitors to Outback Queensland in 2022. @OutbackQueensland

SEE YOU OUT THERE! AND MAKE SURE YOU HASHTAG US SO WE CAN SEE AND SHARE YOUR SHOTS.

DRIVE THE OUTBACK

All roads lead to the Outback – and your next amazing drive adventure!

With so many roads to explore the Outback, choosing which route to take may sound daunting. Outback Queensland covers an area three times the size of New Zealand. We’ve compiled 20 driving routes for you, catering for every interest, from heritage sights and iconic attractions, to dinosaur trails and national parks.

Queensland’s Outback is waiting to reveal its secrets to you. And with new experiences and events popping up continuously, there’s no better way to discover them than on the road.

FOR MORE DETAILED ROAD TRIP ITINERARIES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: OUTBACKQUEENSLAND. COM.AU/DRIVES

Near Cloncurry

ADVENTURE WAY

ROUTE: Brisbane – St George – Bollon –Cunnamulla – Thargomindah – Innamincka

DISTANCE: 1,437km DURATION: 5 days (one way)

Retrace the tracks of Cobb & Co as you traverse the unique and fascinating Adventure Way where the rewards are spectacular – vivid sunrises and sunsets and night skies with millions of stars. The Adventure Way takes you from St George to the Outback plains where the mulga slowly gives way to a treeless gibber landscape and Queensland meets South Australia.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting at Riversands Winery – St George

▶ Riverbank walkway and picnic – St George

▶ Sandytown River Cruise – Balonne River

▶ Bollon Heritage Centre – Bollon

▶ Thrushton National Park – Bollon

▶ Nullawokka First Nations Gallery and Tours – Bollon

▶ Bronze Statue of Slim Dusty’s ‘The Cunnamulla Fella’ – Cunnamulla

▶ The Artesian Time Tunnel – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla All Aboard show – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla Hot Springs (scheduled to open June 2023) – Cunnamulla

▶ Australia’s first hydro-electricity system – Thargomindah

▶ Burke and Wills’ famous ‘Dig Tree’ near Innamincka

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

ROUTE: Sydney – Warwick – Toowoomba –Biloela – Rockhampton

DISTANCE: 1,583km DURATION: 8 days (one way)

Australia’s Country Way guides you to the delights and treasures that pepper the countryside of the Great Dividing Range. From Sydney to Rockhampton the holiday is as much about savouring the journey as reaching the destination. Stunning natural formations and welcoming towns, interspersed with crops and grazing land await.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Isla Gorge National Park – via Taroom

▶ Cracow Hotel country pub and historic town – Cracow

▶ Dawson Folk Museum – Theodore

▶ Water tower mural – Moura

▶ Banana the bullock statue – Banana

▶ Kroombit Tops National Park and “Beautiful Betsy” WWII bomber –via Biloela

▶ Queensland Heritage Park – Biloela

▶ Greycliffe Homestead – Biloela

▶ Spirit of the Land mural – Biloela

▶ Lake Callide – via Biloela

Toowoomba

Warwick

Biloela

Rockhampton Sydney

Toowoomba St George Dalby Bollon

Cunnamulla argomindah

Innamincka BRISBANE

Cunnamulla All Aboard show, Cunnamulla

‘Beautiful Betsy’, Kroombit Tops National Park, via Biloela

AUSTRALIAN DINOSAUR TRAIL

ROUTE: Richmond – Winton – Lark Quarry –Hughenden – Porcupine Gorge – Richmond

DISTANCE: 735km DURATION: 5 days (loop)

Follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this ancient land. The Australian Dinosaur Trail encompasses the towns of Winton, Hughenden and Richmond which all have their own unique dinosaur stories to tell. This journey offers visitors a range of unique experiences not available anywhere else in the world, let alone Australia.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways – via Winton

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum – Winton

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre – Hughenden

▶ Hughenden Recreational Lake – Hughenden

▶ 1.5 kilometre diverse “Eco walk on Flinders” – Hughenden

▶ Porcupine Gorge National Park

▶ Kooroorinya Falls Nature Reserve

▶ Enjoy an Outback Sunset – Mount Walker

▶ Explore Kronosaurus Korner – Richmond

▶ Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre – Richmond

▶ Lake Fred Tritton – Richmond

BARCOO WAY

ROUTE: Tambo – Blackall – Yaraka – Welford National Park – Windorah

DISTANCE: 509km DURATION: 9 days

Follow the mighty Barcoo River west from Tambo and trek along the river road skirting the tranquil billabongs. These backroads take you through the prime sheep and cattle lands of Blackall-Tambo and Isisford to the rocky outcrops of Yaraka and through to the corrugated red dunes of Windorah. Discover awesome National Parks and incredible raw landscapes. A 4WD is recommended for some sections of this drive.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Tambo’s Wilderness Way 4WD Loop experience – Tambo

▶ Tambo Teddies – Tambo

▶ The mighty Barcoo River – swim and fish

▶ The historic Blackall Woolscour – Blackall

▶ The Blackall Sculpture Trail – Blackall

▶ Jumbo the Elephant – Blackall

▶ The picturesque town of Isisford

▶ Avington Waterhole – near Isisford

▶ Sunset at Mt Slowcombe near Yaraka

▶ Welford National Park

▶ Windorah – with its famous red sand dunes

▶ Cooper Creek – near Windorah

Blackall Tambo

Isisford Emmet Yaraka Windorah

Windorah

Hughenden

Porcupine Gorge

Winton

Lark Quarry

Richmond

Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton

DINOS, CROCS AND GOLD

ROUTE: Townsville – Charters Towers –Hughenden – Julia Creek – Mount Isa – Cloncurry

– Adels Grove – Cobbold Gorge – Townsville

DISTANCE: 2,934km DURATION: 14 days (loop)

This 14-day Dinos, Crocs and Gold journey begins in Townsville and incorporates everything from fossicking for gold, digging for fossils on The Dinosaur Trail, heading underground at the Hard Times Mine Tour, meeting the world’s largest ever captured crocodile and walking the path of a volcano at Undara Experience. On the way back to Townsville, make sure to take a break and stop for a cold drink at a local pub along the way.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre – Hughenden

▶ Outdoor artesian bathhouses – Julia Creek

▶ See a live dunnart – Julia Creek

▶ Explore Kronosaurus Korner – Richmond

▶ Lake Fred Tritton – Richmond

▶ Underground Hospital and Museum Tour – Mount Isa

▶ Outback at Isa and Hard Times Mine Tour – Mount Isa

▶ John Flynn Place Museum – Cloncurry

▶ Cloncurry Unearthed and Bush Tucker Garden – Cloncurry

▶ Water tower mural – Cloncurry

▶ Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla National Park – Adels Grove

▶ Cobbold Gorge – Forsayth

▶ Undara Lava Tubes – Undara

DISCOVERY DRIVE

ROUTE: Townsville – Hughenden – Cloncurry –Mount Isa – Boulia – Winton – Townsville

DISTANCE: 2,172km

DURATION: 12 days (loop)

The Discovery Drive will take you on a journey packed to the brim with Outback legends, ancient discoveries and bucket-list adventures. The drive links the Overlander’s Way and Australia’s Dinosaur Trail with the fascinating Channel Country. Explore vast everchanging landscapes; see amazing prehistoric discoveries; and connect with Australia’s pioneering communities.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre – Hughenden

▶ Hughenden Recreational Lake – Hughenden

▶ Kronosaurus Korner and marine fossils – Richmond

▶ Lake Fred Tritton – Richmond

▶ At The Creek and dunnarts – Julia Creek

▶ Artesian baths – Julia Creek

▶ Cloncurry Unearthed – Cloncurry

▶ John Flynn Place Museum – Cloncurry

▶ Outback at Isa and Hard Times Underground Mine Tour – Mount Isa

▶ Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Museum – Mount Isa

▶ Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park – via Mount Isa

▶ The Min Min Encounter and Boulia Heritage Complex – Boulia

▶ The Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Winton

Townsville

Charters Towers Hughenden

Richmond

Normanton

Cobbold Gorge

Undara Julia Creek

Mount Isa Cloncurry

Adels Grove

Fossicking near Richmond

Boulia

Hughenden

Townsville

Winton

Cloncurry

Mount Isa

John Flynn Place Museum, Cloncurry

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach

Hughenden

GEMS OF THE OUTBACK LOOP

ROUTE: Emerald – Jericho – Barcaldine – Muttaburra – Hughenden – Winton – Longreach – Blackall –Tambo – Roma – Carnarvon Gorge – Emerald

DISTANCE: 2,451km DURATION: 14 days (loop)

Explore Outback Queensland on this 14-day Gems of the Outback journey. Fossick for your fortune, meet Hughie the giant Muttaburrasauras, detour for the unique Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail, glide on the Thomson River at sunset, take a guided tour of the historic Blackall Woolscour, visit the largest cattle saleyards in Australia, and explore Carnarvon Gorge!

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail – via Aramac

▶ The Tree of Knowledge – Barcaldine

▶ Australian Workers Heritage Centre – Barcaldine

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre and the Dinosaur Trail – Hughenden

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Winton

▶ Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame – Longreach

▶ Qantas Founders Museum and Luminescent Show – Longreach

Winton

Longreach

Muttaburra

Barcaldine Isisford

Emerald Jericho Blackall

Tambo

Carnarvon Gorge

Augathella Roma

▶ Powerhouse & Historical Museum – Longreach

▶ Cruises on the Thomson River – Longreach

▶ Tambo Teddies – Tambo

▶ The Blackall Woolscour – Blackall

▶ The Big Rig – Roma

▶ Carnarvon National Park and Art Gallery Walk – Injune

GREAT INLAND WAY

ROUTE: Sydney – St George – Roma – Injune –Emerald – Charters Towers – Cairns

DISTANCE: 3,005km DURATION: 16 days (one way)

The Great Inland Way starts in Sydney and takes in much of central New South Wales before reaching the Queensland border at Hebel. The Queensland leg extends from Outback Queensland to the Coral Sea, passing through Dirranbandi and St George, Surat, Roma and Injune, en-route to the sandstone escarpments of Carnarvon National Park. This 16-day adventure ends in Cairns where you can explore above and below the fringing Coral Sea.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ The famous Nindigully Pub – Nindigully

▶ Balonne River fishing and exploring – St George

▶ St George Heritage Trail and Heritage Centre – St George

▶ Wine tour and tasting at Riversands Vineyards – St George

▶ Cotton farm and vineyard tour – St George

▶ Cobb and Co Changing Station – Surat

▶ The Big Rig – Roma

▶ Roma Bush Gardens – Roma

▶ Adungadoo Pathway along Bungil Creek – Roma

▶ Roma Saleyards – largest cattle yards in Australia

▶ Carnarvon National Park and Art Gallery Walk – Injune

Hebel

St George

Surat Roma

Rolleston

Emerald Clermont

Charters Towers

Ravenshoe

Cairns

Cooktown

e Lynd Junction

The Big Rig, Roma

The Matilda Way is one road that most definitely leads to adventure, and a different one each day.

Along the Matilda Way you will discover little known secrets, experience the raw history of the region and natural wonders of the vast and ancient landscapes. As you’re travelling, check the byways along the route; there are plenty of side-trips that add to the overall Outback experience. Just remember you are sharing the road with huge road trains, livestock and native animals, take care and give way, you’ll protect your vehicle and the truckies will thank you for it. Come and enjoy experiencing the Outback along the Matilda Way.

The fully sealed 1812 kilometre highway stretches from the New South Wales border all the way to the Gulf of Carpentaria, from Cunnamulla to Karumba. Traversing the ‘real Outback’, the route is filled with friendly local characters, unique attractions and unspoiled natural sites. Four days is a comfortable drive, depending on how long you spend discovering the unique charms of each township. /matildahighway /matildaway outbackqueensland.com.au/drive/matilda-way

SOUTH

LEICHHARDT WAY

ROUTE: Goondiwindi – Miles – Theodore –Rockhampton – Yeppoon

DISTANCE: 703km DURATION: 4 days (one way)

Named after the courageous explorer Ludwig Leichhardt, this inland road passes through the Queensland border town of Goondiwindi, via Theodore, and then on to the coastal town of Yeppoon. Drive through friendly country towns, past picturesque rivers, stopping for a picnic or spot of fishing. There are so many things to do along this inland route – from bush walks in National Parks, to historic museums full of artefacts and fun facts.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Isla Gorge National Park – via Taroom

▶ The Leichhardt Tree – Taroom

▶ Taroom Historical Museum and Star of Taroom – Taroom

▶ Gilberts Lookout – Taroom

▶ Cracow Hotel country pub and historic town – Cracow

▶ Dawson Folk Museum – Theodore

▶ Water tower mural – Moura

▶ Moura Miners Memorial – Moura

▶ Moura Coal and Country Museum – Moura

▶ Banana the bullock statue – Banana

▶ Baralaba Historical Village – Baralaba

▶ Dawson River fishing & swimming – via Baralaba

▶ Dululu township

MATILDA WAY

ROUTE: Cunnamulla – Charleville – Blackall –Longreach – Winton – Cloncurry – Karumba

DISTANCE: 1,812km DURATION: 10 days (one way)

The Matilda Way is one road that most definitely leads to adventure. The fully sealed 1,812 kilometre highway stretches from the New South Wales border all the way to the Gulf of Carpentaria, from Cunnamulla to Karumba. Traversing the route is filled with friendly local characters, unique attractions and unspoiled natural sites.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ The Artesian Time Tunnel – Cunnamulla

▶ The Cosmos Centre and Observatory – Charleville

▶ Bilby Experience and WWII Secret Base and Tour – Charleville

▶ Tambo Teddies – Tambo

▶ Historic Blackall Woolscour – Blackall

▶ The Tree of Knowledge – Barcaldine

▶ Australian Workers Heritage Centre – Barcaldine

▶ Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame – Longreach

▶ Qantas Founders Museum – Longreach

▶ Powerhouse & Historical Museum – Longreach

▶ Thomson River cruises – Longreach

▶ Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park – Winton

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Winton

▶ Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ John Flynn Place and Cloncurry Unearthed Museum – Cloncurry

▶ The Barra Centre – Karumba

Miles

Banana eodore

Goondiwindi

Rockhampton Yeppoon

Banana the Bullock, Banana

Charleville

Augathella

Tambo

Blackall

Barcaldine Longreach

Winton

Kynuna

Cloncurry

Burke & Wills Junction

Normanton Karumba

Cunnamulla

WWII Secret Base, Charleville

OVERLANDERS WAY

TOWNSVILLE TO MOUNT ISA

Camooweal

Travelling the Overlanders Way will allow you to take in the wonders of the vast rugged cattle plains, dramatic basalt landscapes, spectacular gorges, prolific wildlife and take you on a journey through architecturally rich historic towns without even having to leave the bitumen.

This self-drive track served as an important line during World War II and stretches across 1100 kilometres taking you from the reef to the Outback in a matter of days.

facebook.com/overlandersway twitter.com/overlandersway

instagram #overlandersway

There is plenty to see and do for the adventurous enquiring soul, so pack your flippers and your hiking boots and get ready to experience an Outback adventure of a lifetime.

www.overlandersway.com

MUTTABURRA

CROYDON

Unearthed

NATURAL ENCOUNTERS TRAIL

ROUTE: Lark Quarry Conservation Park – Boulia – Winton – Lark Quarry Conservation Park

DISTANCE: 924km DURATION: 4-5 days (loop)

Learn about the mysterious Min Min Light then follow the Natural Encounters Trail to Winton via the Diamantina National Park. Explore desert landscapes and visit important wetland habitats. Travel across ancient mesas, gullies and timeless escarpments to Lark Quarry’s dinosaur stampede. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for this trail.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Bladensburg National Park – via Winton

▶ The Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Winton

▶ The Musical Fence and Arno’s Wall – Winton

▶ The Royal Theatre – Winton

▶ The Min Min Encounter – Boulia

▶ Boulia Marine Reptile Fossil Display – Boulia

▶ Boulia Heritage Complex – Boulia

▶ Boulia Heritage Trail – Boulia

▶ Diamantina National Park and Warracoota Ruins

▶ Lake Constance and Hunters Gorge wetlands area and migratory birds

▶ Lark Quarry Conservation Park and dinosaur stampede trackways

NATIONAL PARKS LOOP

ROUTE: Brisbane – Bunya Mountains –Carnarvon Gorge – St George – Girraween National Park – Brisbane

DISTANCE: 1,973km DURATION: 8 days (loop)

Discover the world’s largest forest of Bunya Pines and other rare species in Bunya Mountains National Park. Bush walk beneath towering white sandstone cliffs in Carnarvon National Park. See ochre stencils, rock engravings and some of the finest Aboriginal rock imagery in Australia. Explore Girraween National Park with its massive granite outcrops, balancing boulders and spectacular wildflowers in spring.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ The Big Rig – Roma

▶ Roma Saleyards – Roma

▶ Adungadoo Walkway on Bungil Creek – Roma

▶ Roma on Bungil Art Gallery and the Walk of Art – Roma

▶ Carnarvon National Park and Art Gallery Walk – via Injune

▶ Rainforests, cascading waterfalls and cool rock pools

▶ Vineyard tour and wine tasting at Riversands Wines – St George

▶ Balonne River and cruises – St George

▶ The Unique Egg – St George

▶ Historic Nindigully Pub – Nindigully

▶ Thallon GrainCorp Silos – Thallon

▶ Nullawokka First Nations Gallery and Tours – Bollon

Lark Quarry Conservation Park

Boulia Winton

The Waltzing Matilda Centre, Winton

Roma

St George

Toowoomba

Miles Bunya Mountains Girraween National Park

Carnarvon National Park

BRISBANE

Carnarvon Gorge, via Roma

NATURAL SCIENCES LOOP

ROUTE: Charleville – Cunnamulla – Thargomindah

– Eromanga – Quilpie – Charleville

DISTANCE: 995km DURATION: 5 days (loop)

This drive has it all; birds, opals, fossicking, rivers, geology, lakes, billabongs, artesian waters and bilbies. It’s natural history and heritage all rolled into one. Discover Outback Queensland’s natural and manmade heritage, Outback towns, wildlife and more.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Bronze Statue of Slim Dusty’s ‘The Cunnamulla Fella’ – Cunnamulla

▶ The Artesian Time Tunnel – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla All Aboard show – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla Hot Springs (scheduled to open June 2023) – Cunnamulla

▶ Artesian Mud Baths – Eulo

▶ Historic Old Hospital and Old Jail – Thargomindah

▶ The famous Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ – via Thargomindah

▶ Australia’s first hydro-electricity system – Thargomindah

▶ Eromanga Natural History Museum – Eromanga

▶ Outback sunset at Baldy Top Lookout – Quilpie

▶ Quilpeta night show experience – Quilpie

▶ Bilby Experience – Charleville

▶ The Cosmos Centre – Charleville

▶ WWII Secret Base and Tour – Charleville

NORTH WEST LOOP

ROUTE: Cairns – Georgetown – Cloncurry – Julia Creek – Richmond – Hughenden – Townsville

DISTANCE: 2,516km DURATION: 11 days (loop)

A ‘must do’ adventure self-drive route, the North West Loop features spectacular National Parks, timeless gorges, prehistoric discoveries and welcoming communities. The drive links The Savannah Way with the Overlander’s Way via the northern section of the Matilda Way. Expect to indulge your adventurous spirit, be captivated by the open road, and sample delicious Gulf seafood.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Cobbold Gorge – via Georgetown

▶ Cloncurry Unearthed and Visitor Information Centre – Cloncurry

▶ John Flynn Place Museum – Cloncurry

▶ At The Creek and dunnarts – Julia Creek

▶ Artesian baths – Julia Creek

▶ Kronosaurus Korner and marine fossils – Richmond

▶ Lake Fred Tritton – Richmond

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre – Hughenden

▶ Mount Walker Lookout – Hughenden

▶ Hughenden Recreational Lake – Hughenden

▶ Porcupine Gorge National Park – via Hughenden

Burketown

Hughenden

Julia Creek

Cairns Townsville Georgetown

Cloncurry

Richmond

Normanton

Cloncurry

Charleville

Cunnamulla Eulo argomindah

Eromanga Quilpie

Cunnamulla

Explore e

Natural Sciences Loop

The sky’s literally the limit on this fully sealed Outback adventure loop. If you prefer ‘sight doing’ over ‘sightseeing’ then be sure to allow time to actively explore the towns along the route. Take a look at some of the town highlights.

Augathella

CHARLEVILLE

Cooladdi

Morven

CHARLEVILLE Stargazing & Endangered Marsupials

 Get up close and personal with the endangered Bilby

 Discover the night sky and so much more at the Cosmos Centre

 See the Vortex rainmaker guns and learn their story

 Enlist yourself and experience the WWII Secret Base and Tour

 Follow the Outback Native Timber self-guided walk

 See the automated Weather Balloon release daily at 9:15am

Charleville Visitor Information Centre

MITCHELL HIGHWAY

WARREGO HIGHWAY ADVENTURE WAY TO ST GEORGE

CUNNAMULLA

Wyandra

Railway Station, King Street, Charleville | P (07) 4656 8359 info@murweh.qld.gov.au | www.experiencecharleville.com.au

CUNNAMULLA Artesian Bores & Natural Sandhills

 Discover the ancient water story at the Artesian Time Tunnel

 Kayak the tranquil waters of the Warrego River

 Feel the sand between your toes at The Beach in Wyandra

 Soak in an Artesian Bore or Artesian Mud Bath

 Fossick for the unique Yowah ‘nut’ opal

Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Centre

2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla | P (07) 4655 8470 visitor@paroo.qld.gov.au | www.cunnamullatourism.com.au

THARGOMINDAH Wetland Systems & The Dig Tree

 Take a tour of Australia’s first hydro-electricity system, Old Hospital and Jail

 Enjoy the fully sealed scenic walking/riding path around Thargomindah

 Spend a day at the historic Noccundra Hotel and Wilson River

 Drive to the historic Burke & Wills Dig Tree (only 14km unsealed)

 Discover salt and freshwater wetlands at Lake Bindegolly and Currawinya National Park

Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre

Echidna Place, 37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah | P (07) 4621 8095 tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au | www.explorebulloo.com.au

EROMANGA

Giant Marsupial & Dinosaur Discoveries

 Journey to Australia’s furthest town from the sea

 See giant Diprotodon (world’s largest marsupial) fossils found in Eulo

 Meet Cooper, a Titanosaur, Australia’s largest dinosaur

 Visit the Eromanga Living History Centre

 Discover Australia’s largest oil producing region

Eromanga Natural History Museum

1 Dinosaur Drive, Eromanga | P (07) 4656 3084 info@enhm.com.au | www.enhm.com.au

QUILPIE The

Boulder Opal & Hell Hole Gorge

 Fossick for boulder opals and admire the Opal Altar

 Climb Baldy Top summit for awesome sunset views

 Catch yabbies and yellowbelly in the Bulloo River

 Take a day trip to Hell Hole Gorge

 Spot native birds and wildlife at Lake Houdraman

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery

51 Brolga Street, Quilpie | P (07) 4656 0540 tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au | www.visitquilpieshire.com

OUTBACK ADVENTURE

ROUTE: Brisbane – Charleville – Cunnamulla –Brisbane

DISTANCE: 2,448km DURATION: 9 days (loop)

Start your journey by heading west to Roma, Toowoomba and Chinchilla. In Roma check out the Big Rig Night Show, then cool off with a swim in the Artesian Spa at Mitchell. In Charleville, join the up close and personal Bilby Experience and later take a tour of the Outback Night Sky. Meet Australia’s giant dinosaurs at Eromanga Natural History Museum, some of the top 10 largest dinosaurs in the world.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ The Big Rig Sound and Light Show – Roma

▶ Great Artesian Spa – Mitchell

▶ Bilby Experience and Cosmos Centre – Charleville

▶ WWII Secret Base and Tour – Charlevillle

▶ Fossicking for Boulder Opals – Quilpie

▶ Quilpeta night show experience – Quilpie

▶ Outback Sunset – Baldy Top Lookout

▶ Eromanga Natural History Museum – Eromanga

▶ Lake Bindegolly National Park – Eulo

▶ Artesian Mud Springs – Eulo

▶ Sandytown River Cruise – St George

▶ Riversands Wines – St George

▶ Artesian Time Tunnel and ‘Cunnamulla Fella’ – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla Hot Springs (scheduled to open June 2023) – Cunnamulla

OUTBACK LEGENDS

ROUTE: Brisbane – Eromanga – Windorah –Longreach – Blackall – Charleville – Brisbane

DISTANCE: 3,440km DURATION: 15 days (loop)

This 15-day journey incorporates the very best of Outback Queensland. Travelling far west through ever changing landscapes into the heart of Channel Country, the drive continues to Longreach where you step back in time to experience some of Australia’s most important moments of history. Heading back east through Charleville, learn about the endangered bilby and be taken on a journey of the cosmos.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Sandytown River Cruise – St George

▶ Artesian Time Tunnel and ‘Cunnamulla Fella’ – Cunnamulla

▶ Eromanga Natural History Museum – Eromanga

▶ Opal fossicking – Quilpie

▶ Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame – Longreach

▶ Qantas Founders Museum – Longreach

▶ Tree of Knowledge – Barcaldine

▶ Blackall Woolscour – Blackall

▶ Top Secret WWII Tour – Charleville

▶ The Cosmos Centre – Charleville

▶ The Big Rig – Roma

▶ Roma Saleyards – Roma

Eromanga Natural History Museum, Eromanga Roma Charleville Eromanga Toowoomba Dalby Cunnamulla argomindah

BRISBANE St George

Thallon GrainCorp Silos

Girraween National Park Tree of Knowledge, Barcaldine

THE ULTIMATE AUSSIE ROAD TRIP

Charters Towers Hughenden

OUTBACK WAY

ROUTE: Winton – Boulia – Jervois Station – Alice Springs – Yulara (Ayers Rock) – Warburton –Laverton

DISTANCE: 2,700km DURATION: 7+ days

This is an epic road trip, on Australia’s Longest Shortcut – connecting you from Winton, Queensland to Laverton, Western Australia. Marvel at ancient landscapes, dig for fossils, look for the mysterious Min Min lights, enjoy the wildflowers, wildlife and landscapes on this Outback adventure. Travellers journeying along the Outback Way can enjoy some of Australia’s most remote, interesting and picturesque desert areas. This drive includes unsealed roads.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Waltzing Matilda Centre – Winton

▶ Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum – Winton

▶ The Royal Theatre – Winton

▶ Bladensburg National Park – near Winton

▶ Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways – via Winton

▶ The Middleton Hotel – Middleton

▶ The iconic Channel Country – between Winton & Boulia

▶ Cawnpore Lookout – near Middleton

▶ Boulia Heritage Complex – Boulia

▶ Min Min Encounter and Visitor Information Centre – Boulia

▶ The famous Urandangi Pub – Urandangi (via Boulia)

▶ Boulia Marine Reptile Fossil Display – Boulia

OVERLANDER’S WAY

ROUTE: Townsville – Hughenden – Richmond –Julia Creek – Cloncurry – Mount Isa – Camooweal

DISTANCE: 1,097km DURATION: 8 days (one way)

From the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and pristine beaches of Townsville to the rugged rocky outcrops and red sand of north-west Queensland, the Overlander’s Way will take you through towns rich with history, dinosaur discoveries and some of the world’s quirkiest events; all without having to leave the bitumen. Follow the footsteps of Australia’s droving heroes, who led thousands of cattle from the Northern Territory across Queensland to coastal markets.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Australia’s Dinosaur Trail – Hughenden & Richmond

▶ Flinders Discovery Centre – Hughenden

▶ Hughenden Recreational Lake – Hughenden

▶ Lake Fred Tritton – Richmond

▶ Porcupine Gorge National Park – Flinders region

▶ Marine Fossil Museum at Kronosaurus Korner – Richmond

▶ ‘At The Creek’ to see a live dunnart – Julia Creek

▶ John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery – Cloncurry

▶ Cloncurry Unearthed and Bush Tucker Trail and Garden – Cloncurry

▶ Outback at Isa and Hard Times Mines Underground Tour – Mount Isa

▶ Camooweal Caves National Park – Camooweal

Townsville

Richmond Julia Creek

Mount Isa

Camooweal Cloncurry

Outback at Isa, Mount Isa

Winton Middleton Boulia

The Royal Theatre, Winton

Outback Towing Tips & Techniques

Drive at speeds suitable to the terrain being traversed.

Always drive within your capabilities.

Ensure that your load is properly secured. Limit the amount of load in the boot of the tow vehicle.

Always drive appropriately for the road/track conditions.

Know where the vulnerable/ low points are underneath both the car and trailer.

Off-highway towing is challenging and is recommended for experienced off-highway drivers only.

Ensure that your caravan design is suitable for use off the highway.

Check your warranty coverage as some items may not be covered for off-highway driving.

Be realistic as to where you are going. Use a suitable tow vehicle. In most cases a low range capable vehicle is necessary.

Know your approach, ramp over and departure angles and also the angles associated with the drawbar and trailer.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

For more tips and advice, places to stay and where to purchase products and services visit:

caravanqld.com.au Look

Use an “off-road” style coupling.

Have at least basic 4WD skills.

Have electric brakes fitted to the trailer/caravan. Mechanical over-ride brakes may not be suitable for off-road use.

In an “off-road/highway” situation set the bias on the trailer brakes. The trailer wheels will lock up before the car, preventing the trailer overtaking the car.

Know where the wheels of the car and trailer are travelling.

SOUTHERN OUTBACK DRIVE

ROUTE: Brisbane – Roma – Charleville – Quilpie –Eromanga – Thargomindah – Eulo – Cunnamulla – St George – Brisbane

DISTANCE: 2,410km DURATION: 10 days (loop)

Visit the largest cattle selling centre in Australia and answer the call of the universe with a tour of the Cosmos Big Sky Observatory. In Charleville, find out why you should join the Easter ‘bilbies not bunnies’ campaign on a visit to the Bilby Experience. Discover exquisite boulder opal in Quilpie. Follow the footsteps of giants in Eromanga and sample wines in St George.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ Big Rig Tour and Night Show – Roma

▶ Infamous Cattle Saleyards – Roma

▶ Great Artesian Spa – Mitchell

▶ Cosmos Centre and WWII Secret Base and Tour – Charleville

▶ The Bilby Experience – Charleville

▶ Opal fossicking – Quilpie

▶ Quilpeta night show experience – Quilpie

▶ Eromanga Natural History Museum – Eromanga

▶ Australia’s first hydro-electricity system – Thargomindah

▶ Artesian Time Tunnel and ‘Cunnamulla Fella’ – Cunnamulla

▶ Cunnamulla All Aboard show – Cunnamulla

▶ Riversands Wine Tasting and Vineyards Tour – St George

▶ Sandytown River Cruise – St George

WARREGO WAY

ROUTE: Brisbane – Toowoomba – Roma – Mitchell – Charleville – Windorah – Birdsville

DISTANCE: 1,578km DURATION: 5 days (one way)

The Warrego Way starts at Brisbane and finishes in the iconic and remote outback town of Birdsville. Along the way, you can see ancient trees from the dinosaur age, endangered mammals, unwind in the soothing waters from the sub artesian basin, delight in yarns told over country bars, or just relax and enjoy the brilliant sunsets and starry nights.

HIGHLIGHTS

▶ The Big Rig – Roma

▶ Roma Saleyards, the largest in Australia – Roma

▶ The Great Artesian Spa – Mitchell

▶ Cosmos Centre – Charleville

▶ Bilby Experience and WWII Secret Base and Tour – Charleville

▶ Baldy Top Lookout – Quilpie

▶ Quilpeta night show experience – Quilpie

▶ Eromanga Natural History Museum, home to Cooper the dinosaur –Eromanga

▶ Cooper Creek and fishing – Windorah

▶ Spectacular red sand dunes – near Windorah

▶ The Birdsville Hotel – Birdsville

▶ ‘Big Red’ sand dune – Simpson Desert, Birdsville

▶ Birdsville Billabong – Birdsville

▶ Birdsville Courthouse Museum – Birdsville

Roma Charleville Quilpie

Roma Mitchell

Charleville

Windorah Birdsville

Toowoomba

BRISBANE

The Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville

Sculpture art near Mitchell

QUEENSLAND’S OUTBACK BY RAIL –

When you take an Outback adventure, you don’t want to miss a minute of the breathtaking scenery. Onboard the train you can relax, enjoy the stunning landscapes and blue skies as you journey through Queensland’s Outback.

Queensland Rail Travel offers a choice of three train journeys across Queensland’s Outback with twice weekly return services to each region.

The Spirit of the Outback offers a unique journey immersed in the history and culture of Australia between Brisbane and Longreach into the central west – with a direct coach connection to Winton. Or, travel through diverse country and vast landscapes between Brisbane and Charleville in the south west of the state on the Westlander – with coach connections continuing to Quilpie or Cunnamulla.

In the north, take the Inlander from Townsville to Mount Isa to explore natural and prehistoric treasures along the way.

Rail offers a great way to travel and a sense of adventure as the train travels through rugged mountain ranges and wide-open plains. Enjoy the time to simply sit back in comfort and discover the beauty of the outback as it comes to life.

Book your rail journey to discover Queensland’s Outback.

Visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH KIDS

Let us assure you we have never received a complaint from kids being bored on an Outback Queensland adventure – in fact the opposite, they can’t wait to go back again. To help you have the best family adventure too, here’s our top tips – direct from those who have done it many times.

Family roadtrip survival guide

When it comes to travelling with children, expect the unexpected. A three-hour drive can take five. So, keep your car packed with plenty of drinking water, wall-to-wall snacks, wet wipes for sticky fingers, and last but not least, a well-stocked first-aid kit.

Preparation and pit stops

Choosing the right time to set off can make a massive difference to your travel sanity. Involve the kids in the planning stage. Show them this guide and get them to highlight where they want to go! For some families it might be first thing in the morning while everyone is fresh, for others during the day to make the most of coinciding nap times. The key is to set realistic travel times and always factor in some additional time for inevitable or fun stops along the way – to enjoy an ice-cream, a picnic by a billabong, or a run down a big sand dune!

WIFI TIP

INTERNET CONNECTION IS NOT GREAT IN SOME PLACES – SO ENSURE YOU DOWNLOAD AUDIOBOOKS, MOVIES, GAMES ETC DIRECT TO TABLETS, PHONES OR LAPTOPS BEFORE YOU DEPART.

Nature & Environment

Outback Queensland is the perfect place for kids to explore and learn first-hand about their environment. Encourage them to look for and collect interesting items along the way, including feathers, flowers and stones. Point out landscape features along the way and spend time doing educational activities like visiting historical museums, fossicking and dinosaur experiences, exploring national parks and heritage trails. For older kids grab a scrapbook and gluestick before you leave, they can add tickets and brochures and create a journal of their travels.

Snacks

If you think you have packed enough snacks…. pack some more! You don’t want to have to pull over in the middle of nowhere and try to find snacks. Pack simple foods into a small cooler bag that are easy to eat with fingers, such as apples, grapes, dried fruit, cheese sticks, crackers and muesli bars. Our top tip? Avoid messy foods and avoid super sugary foods or you’ll have them bouncing off the car doors.

Audiobooks

A roadtrip is the perfect setting to get your kids listening to educational or creative stories the entire family can enjoy. Our top tip for a really funny family roadtrip series is The Tripp Diaries series by Stig Wemyss, which is set in Australia. Audiobooks keep kids entertained but also keep a calm environment in the car for your driver. Remember to have a few options ready in case kids lose interest in one. Don’t forget to visit your local library before leaving; you can borrow out audiobooks as CDs or even borrow them out online. And bring earplugs for listening – in case they want to listen to different stories.

Empower them

Give your children options so they feel in control. For example: ‘Would you like to stop at this park for a play or keep driving and get to the caravan park so you can go for a swim?’ When they have a stake in selecting your outings, they’ll enjoy them more and appreciate feeling like they’re a part of the trip and that you’re listening to them and their requests.

Keep Necessities on Hand

Baby wipes, lots of baby wipes! There is nothing that can’t be cleaned with a baby wipe. Take extra bags for storing rubbish or leftover food. Plenty of tissues. A spare roll of toilet paper will also come in handy if you do need to have an emergency roadside pit stop. A stable table is a brilliant idea to pack for bigger kids who want to read or colour on the way. And don’t forget to pack hand sanitiser.

Above, (top-bottom) Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach; Cloncurry; Tambo Teddies, Tambo

Australian Workers Heritage Centre, Barcaldine

CREATE YOUR OWN OUTBACK ADVENTURE

QUEENSLAND TOURISM AWARD WINNERS 2022

Congratulations to all our 2022 Queensland Tourism Award winners for your tourism excellence! We are immensely proud of all our Outback Queensland tourism operators and businesses for their work and dedication to creating incredible visitor experiences.

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND MASTERS

Gold: Festivals and Events

QUILPIE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE, MUSEUM AND GALLERY

Gold: Visitor Information Services

MITCHELL GRASS RETREAT

Gold: Unique Accommodation

THE ROYAL THEATRE WINTON

Gold: Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group

AUSTRALIAN AGE OF DINOSAURS

MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Silver: Major Tourist Attractions

JULIA CREEK CARAVAN PARK

Silver: Caravan and Holiday Parks

AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME

Bronze: Major Tourist Attractions

EROMANGA NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Bronze: Cultural Tourism

CENTRAL WEST

SOUTH WEST

On or off the beaten track, Outback Queensland is a vast and contrasting land that offers unique and unforgettable holiday experiences.

From nature and spectacular scenery to history, culture and quirky icons, there are so many different activities, events and places to choose from, it’s easy to personalise your very own Outback Queensland adventure.

Outback Queensland stretches from Mount Isa in the north-west, Birdsville in the south-west, Thargomindah and St George in the south, Hughenden in the north-east, and Biloela in the east – covering a massive 932,678km², about 68% of Queensland, and 19 Outback Council regions.

As the region is divided into five sub-regions, exploring and planning your trip is simple. Check out the map and our regional guides to find the places and activities to include in your perfect Outback holiday.

2023 IS THE YEAR OF ACCESSIBLE TOURISM IN QUEENSLAND

Most major Outback Queensland attractions and experiences provide accessible facilities, such as wheelchair access. That’s set to increase through a great new Queensland Government initiative to assist tourism businesses to enhance their destination experiences and accessibility for people of all abilities and provide skills training to support employees with a disability.

Please check operator websites for information about their current facilities and accessibility.

Eromanga Quilpie Charleville Roma

Cunnamulla argomindah

St George Bollon

NORTH WEST

Mount Isa

Julia Creek Richmond

TOWNSVILLE

CAIRNS

Rangelands Outback Camp Outback Queensland Traveller’s Guide 2023 OUTBACK QUEENSLAND REGIONS

INCORPORATING THE

Looking for adventure? You’ll find it in the south west. In fact, it’s so adventurous, they named one of the drive routes which cuts through this Outback territory, ‘The Adventure Way’.

Head out along the Warrego Way and experience big nature and colour as thriving wetlands and national parks give way to red sands in the west. Adventure by day, and by night – when the sun’s gone down the galaxy puts on a nightly show. Explore Outback towns, natural and manmade heritage, and experience big open skies. See the region’s natural attractions including Carnarvon National Park, Roma’s Biggest Bottle Tree, EJ Beardmore Dam, Cunnamulla Bushlands, Baldy Top

SOUTH WEST

Lookout and Lake Houdraman. St George and Surat are situated on the banks of the mighty Balonne River and are famous for Yellowbelly fishing. Stunning scenery abounds in these southern districts, with a rich history in cotton, opal, oil and gas. Experience the history and sights on a round trip of the Natural Sciences Loop connecting key attractions and towns, including Charleville’s Cosmos Centre, Quilpie’s Night Show, the Eromanga Natural History Museum, Thargomindah’s Hydro Power Plant Display and Cunnamulla’s Artesian Time Tunnel. Further south, the giant silos mural in Thallon showcases icons of the district, and the much-loved Nindigully Pub, Queensland’s oldest continually licensed pub, are not to be missed on your travels.

COMMUNITIES OF Roma, Charleville, Quilpie, Eromanga, Thargomindah, Cunnamulla and St George

Main Wallaroo Outback Retreat Inset, (L-R) WWII Secret Base, Charleville; Eromanga Natural History Museum, Eromanga; Cunnamulla

Nullawokka First Nations Gallery, Bollon

ROMA REVEALED

WHERE COUNTRY MEETS THE OUTBACK

Roma; Mitchell; Surat; Injune; Wallumbilla; Yuleba

@romarevealed @romarevealed

#romarevealed #wherecountrymeetstheoutback

Your Outback Adventures Start Here

Climb to the top of The Big Rig Tower

Join the many thousands of visitors who have climbed to the top of the 40m high Big Rig Tower for a bird’s eye view over the Roma region. Th e Big Rig Tower, Museum and Night Show tell of all the twists and drama of when oil and gas fi rst fl owed in our nation, through immersive interpretive exhibits, machinery displays, audio-visual features and our local ‘Roma Rigger’ guides. Book your experience today at www.bigrigroma.com.au.

Do I hear a bid?

Hoof it over to the Roma Saleyards for their free behind-the-scenes tour held on Tuesday morning for all things beef. The Val Harms Jr Roma Saleyards Interactive Centre is open each day from 8am–5pm. The enormity of the Saleyards really needs to be seen to be believed.

Hike through the magnificent Carnarvon Gorge

At 30km long and 60m deep, Carnarvon Gorge positively dwarfs mere humans. Before heading bush to marvel at this sandstone wonder, spend time at Injune and take in the history of the old characters of the town, both alive and dead.

ROMA Population: 6,848

ROMA

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

2 Riggers Road, Roma

P 07 4624 0204 E tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au romarevealed.com.au

INJUNE Population: 460 INJUNE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

32 Hutton Street, Injune

P 07 4626 0503 E tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au romarevealed.com.au

MITCHELL Population: 1,030 MITCHELL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

2 Cambridge Street, Mitchell

P 07 4624 6923 E tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au greatartesianspa.com

TOP TIPS

Immerse

in Surat to Yuleba Cobb & Co History

Cobb & Co was at one time the largest transport network in Queensland, with 3,000 horses covering 16,000km a week. The last horse drawn stagecoach ride took place in 1924 ending in Yuleba. Today you can follow the Cobb & Co Way departing from the Changing Station Museum in Surat retracing the route to Yuleba.

Soak in the Mitchell Great Artesian Spa

Share the secret locals have known for years: a soak in our mineralised waters is relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul. The Great Artesian Spa in Mitchell is open 7 days a week and the spa offers both cool and hot therapy pools that will relax tired muscles, ease tension and revitalise both body and mind.

Enjoy traditional country hospitality at Calico Cottage

Wallumbilla is big on agriculture, rail history and hospitality. Stop into Calico Cottage for home baked country treats and view the locally made arts and craft s. The Harry Thompson walk also starts at Calico Cottage and meanders along the Wallumbilla Creek and loops back into the town centre.

▶ Be one of the first to visit Roma’s hand crafted, small batch distillery opening in 2023. The unique botanicals used in the gin are sourced right here in the Western Queensland Outback. Follow @westernqldspirit for all the updates.

▶ Easter in the Country is Outback Queensland’s premier Easter Festival, five days of activities for the whole family, including pro rodeo, live entertainment, mega Easter Egg hunt, horse races, dinner under the stars and street parade. Book early.

▶ Passionate local tour guides will unlock the ancient wisdom and geological wonders of the Carnarvon Ranges – Injunebased Carnarvon Gorge Eco Tours and Roma-based Boobook Ecotours operate regular tours.

▶ The award winning Mucka Pub offers a relaxed authentic Outback setting, awesome Mucka tucka, just 30 minutes west of Roma on your way to Mitchell.

▶ Glamp in style at Wallaroo Outback Retreat near Injune, nestled in the beautiful Carnarvon Ranges.

QUILPIE MEGA MOMENTS

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Adavale; Cheepie; Eromanga; Quilpie; Toompine @visitquilpieshire @visitquilpieshire

#quilpiemegamoments #visitquilpieshire

Amplify your Outback Adventure

Accessible Service for All

As you roll into town, be sure to call into the award-winning Quilpie Visitor Information Centre. Now with fully accessible facilities and a parents’ room, more visitors can enjoy what’s on offer at the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre. Enjoy a free cuppa in the courtyard, then explore the onsite Art Gallery and Museum. Opal lovers can buy local opal products at the Visitor Information Centre and learn the story of the Boulder Opal. Then, head out the back to the undercover picnic seating or explore the Military History Museum and Railway History Museum.

Mega Moments Screening Nightly

Whether you prefer the big sky or the big screen, Quilpie puts on a great show. The Quilpeta Night Show is presented on a massive outdoor screen behind the Visitor Information Centre; kick back in outdoor lounge chairs on an expansive green space. Pre-show nibbles and drinks are included. But, if you prefer your shows to be screened on the endless Outback sky, then drive the short distance to Baldy Top Lookout. A 10-minute easy climb to the summit will pay huge dividends with sensational 360-degree views …. incredibly beautiful at sunset. Be sure to pack sunset nibbles too!

Now that’s a Dinosaur!

A sealed drive of around 106km west will take you to Eromanga. Dubbed the furthest town from the sea, Eromanga is actually closer than you think. A mere 95 million years ago, the mega of all Australian dinosaurs roamed this region and the Eromanga Natural History Museum has the fossilised remains to prove it. Join the one hour Australian Dinosaurs Tour to learn the story of one of the largest remaining sauropod groups in the Cretaceous Period. With more time, the whole family can learn how to prepare fossils as part of their Family Fossil Preparation program. Plus, there’s some amazing megafauna fossils to view.

Calling Adventure Seekers…

Whether your version of adventure is chatting to a local publican in an authentic Outback pub, exploring a national park, staying on an Outback station or taking a soak in an artesian spa… Quilpie has the goods! Take a drive to the historic Toompine Hotel for a fabulous country-style lunch. Or, 4WD adventurers will relish the chance to discover nearby Hell Hole Gorge. Be sure to take time out for a relaxing soak in an artesian spa (Channel Country Caravan Park) or quirky bathhouse overlooking the spectacular Lake Houdraman (The Lake Quilpie).

QUILPIE Population: 595 QUILPIE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE, MUSEUM & GALLERY

51 Brolga Street, Quilpie P 07 4656 0540 E tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au visitquilpieshire.com

TOP TIPS

▶ Indulge in an Elegant Emu High Tea

▶ See the opal altar at St Finbarr’s

▶ Try your luck at opal fossicking

▶ Stroll the Bulloo River Walk

▶ Catch a yellowbelly

▶ Cook up freshly caught yabbies over the campfire

▶ Take a dip in Lake Houdraman

▶ Explore local birdlife habitats

▶ Visit Lyn Barnes Art Gallery

▶ Gather around the campfire at The Lake Quilpie

▶ Visit the iconic ‘pub with no town’ at Toompine

▶ 4WD in Hell Hole Gorge National Park

▶ See the dinosaurs at Eromanga National History Museum

▶ Join in on a local event

▶ Visit Rick’s Memorial atop a spectacular Jump Up

CHARLEVILLE REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Charleville; Augathella; Morven; Cooladdi

A Four Day Guide to Charleville and surrounds

Day 1

Report for duty at the WWII Secret Base where you’ll uncover top secret information and can practise your skills as a Bombardier. Join the convoy and follow your guide on your very own WWII secret tour. Then visit the RFDS Base for a taste of medicine in the bush.

Don’t miss the Hotel Corones tour for a glimpse into the life of Harry ‘Poppa’ Corones. You’ll hear stories of his comical antics as well as tales of the rich and famous who’ve stayed at the hotel. Finish the day with a wander along the Warrego River Walk.

Day 2

Start your day with date loaf and a tour at the Outback Date Farm. Then relax with a browse through the Mulga Lands Art Gallery or try your luck fishing on the Warrego River.

Don’t forget to catch the Bilby Show at 3pm. You will not only see these furry creatures in their spectacular nocturnal house, but you will also learn about the plight of the bilby and our successful breeding and release program.

Day 3

Stroll around the award-winning Graham Andrews Parkland where you’ll find an Outback Timber Walk, Vortex Rainmaking Guns and even a big red chair!

Then head out to Cooladdi, Australia’s smallest town. Try a Cooladdi King Burger, see the grave of Vera Tighe, catch a yabby and explore Quilberry Creek, the old watering place for steam engines on the Charleville – Quilpie line.

Finish your night at the Cosmos Centre exploring the Milky Way. Using a powerful 14” telescope, your guide will transport you thousands of light-years into space where you will see nebulas, clusters, stars and planets in a way that is not possible to the naked eye.

Day 4

See how kids learn in the Outback with a tour of the Charleville School of the Air – you can even sit in on a lesson. Take a trip out to the Angellala Bridge Explosion site and read about what happened that fateful September day. On your way back to town, stop in at the Charleville Botanical Reserve for a cuppa or a picnic and see if you can spot some of the 100+ bird species that call it home.

End the day with dinner at the Bowls Club and a game of Barefoot Bowls.

CHARLEVILLE Population: 3,300 CHARLEVILLE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Railway Station, King Street, Charleville

P 07 4656 8359 E info@murweh.qld.gov.au

experiencecharleville.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Easter at Augathella is a party that’s been held for 90 years. Featuring billy cart races, a rodeo and horse racing, it’s an event you don’t want to miss.

▶ Visit Morven to see the miniature buildings and kerosene tin hut dating back to the Great Depression. Relax with a picnic lunch at Sadleirs Waterhole and don’t forget to stop in at Tregole National Park to see the ooline trees and dainty black orchids.

▶ Hop aboard Outback Airtours for a unique trip to Birdsville. Have smoko at the bakery, wander around town and enjoy an Outback sized burger at the Birdsville Pub.

▶ Join a sun viewing tour at the Cosmos Centre, where you can see solar fl ares and sunspots through one of the largest sun scopes in Australia.

▶ Stop in and see the infamous Rude Jude at Judey’s Browse Inn for all the local fishing tips.

ST GEORGE REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Bollon; Dirranbandi; Hebel; Mungindi; Nindigully; St George; Thallon

@stgeorgeregion @stgeorgeregion

#explorestgeorge

A Three Day Guide to St George Region

Day 1 St George to Nindigully

MORNING Begin your exploration of Qld’s Inland Fishing Capital on foot along the shady 2km-long Balonne Riverbank Walkway. After, make your way to the Unique Egg where you’ll find emu eggs transformed into hand-carved pieces of illuminated art by a local artisan. Continue your tour of town by taking the St George Heritage Trail.

AFTERNOON Grab a coffee for the 46km journey south to Nindigully, home of Qld’s longest continually licensed pub. Set up camp on a shady spot of the Moonie River, then take in the Gully Walk before checking out the iconic Boomerangs – memorabilia from Hugh Jackman’s first feature film, ‘Paperback Hero’.

EVENING Head to the pub for happy hour, followed by dinner. Come hungry and tackle the pub’s famous Road Train Burger, known to feed up to 10 people.

Day 2 Nindigully to Dirranbandi

MORNING Journey 33km south to Thallon where you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking 30-metrehigh painted grain silos, featuring the spectacular ‘Watering Hole’ mural. Head to the Francis Hotel to grab some breakfast and your copy of the self-guided town history trails and discover Thallon’s early European history. Don’t leave town without getting a selfie with the giant ‘William the Wombat’ sculpture.

AFTERNOON Head 67km west to Dirranbandi which marks the end of the Southwest rail line. Call into Railway Park to find the old waiting room, the original parcels office and the 1913 Station Master’s residence, now the Dirranbandi Rural Transaction Centre.

EVENING Join the locals for a good feed and a great yarn at the Dirranbandi Pub before bedding down for the night.

Day 3 Dirranbandi to St George

MORNING Make your way back to St George where you can sip your way through a personalised tasting at Qld’s most western winery, Riversands Vineyard, and hear the stories about the characters whom their wines are named after.

AFTERNOON Cruise down the Balonne River onboard the ‘Balonne Baroo Andoo’ with Sandytown River Cruises and learn about the flora and fauna which includes over 240 species of birds.

EVENING Celebrate the end of another glorious St George Region day with dinner at one of the local pubs or motels.

STAY A FOURTH DAY … Learn to throw a boomerang, discover bush medicine, historical scar trees and taste gourmet bush tucker with a descendant of the local Gwamu/Kooma people on a Cultural Walk in Bollon.

BALONNE SHIRE Population: 4,500 BALONNE SHIRE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

114 St George’s Terrace, St George P 07 4620 8877 E vic@balonne.qld.gov.au stgeorgeregion.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Best Ride – Take a town tour aboard the St George Bakery’s classic 1917 T-Model Ford Bakery truck.

▶ Cotton On – Find out the real story behind the development of cotton on a Cotton Farm and Vineyard Tour in St George.

▶ Make Tracks – Set up your own bush camp and experience untouched nature at Thrushton or Culgoa Floodplain National Park.

▶ Touch a Piece of History – Place your hands on the One Ton Post, JB Cameron’s survey peg marking the Qld/NSW border near Mungindi.

▶ Russian Treats – Take your tastebuds on a journey with delectable treats like Pryanick (traditional Russian honey bread), Turkish delight and baklava at Dirranbandi Bakery.

▶ Outback Art – Don’t miss the Hebel Hotel with its rusted red roof and artworks adorning the front of the pub by Australian realist painter, John Murray

CUNNAMULLA REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Cunnamulla; Eulo; Wyandra; Yowah

@visitcunnamulla @visitcunnamulla

#visitcunnamulla

Things to See and Do

Artesian Time Tunnel

Step into the Artesian Time Tunnel and be transported back in time 100 million years and hear the story of the Great Artesian Basin – the lifeblood of the Outback. Learn how the underground river flows beneath 1/5 of inland Australia and helps to water this great country, and how our landscape has been transformed and moulded by water, especially in the Paroo region with the natural wonders of mud springs, opals and the mighty Warrego and Paroo Rivers. While you’re there, explore the history of Cunnamulla through the Bicentennial Historical Museum, telling tales of time past, and enjoy the local art displayed in the Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Centre’s Art Gallery. www.cunnamullatourism.com.au

Artesian Baths Galore

If you are yet to experience an Artesian Bath, we’ve got you covered! Ease your tensions and head over to the Artesian Spa in Yowah which consists of hot and cooler pools and the spa. These are open all year round and are a great place to unwind even for those with mobility impairments. If your skin is as dry and cracked as a creek bed in drought, dial up the Outback therapy with an artesian mud bath at Eulo. A mineral-rich clay is mixed with artesian water, in your choice of

temperature, to provide a therapeutic experience so good it has been rumoured to take the bend out of corrugated iron. Charlotte Plains offers Artesian Baths in a relaxing outdoor setting fed directly from a free-flowing bore, allowing you to simply unwind and wash all the stresses and worries about your day away. These baths are best used at night simply to be out under the stars and just be at peace with the world.

Spend a day at the Beach

Wyandra began life as a water stop for the steam locomotives running the rails to Charleville and while it might be over 800km from the Gold Coast, Wyandra boasts its very own beach. Tucked into a bend on the Warrego River this sandy patch is the perfect spot for all the regular ‘day at the beach’ activities, so pack a picnic and the cricket bat!

All Aboard!

The Cunnamulla Railway Station has come to life with the All Aboard 3D Sound & Light Spectacular! This show tells the story of Cunnamulla and its connection to the Railway. Sit back and relax in the modern theatre as the holographic Station Master, Steven Tandy, whisks you back in time on a memorable journey to the ‘end of the line’. www.railwaystation.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Coffee Shop with a twist – Rumour Has It … is the one stop shop for coffee, tea and scones and all things quirky and craft y.

▶ Try something a little different – Try Cunnamulla Coffee Shop’s Camel Burger.

▶ Meet a local Legend – Kenny the Diprotodon statue stands at Eulo ... go say G’Day!

▶ Rubber Duck Races – Raising money for the Royal Flying Doctors, enjoy a thrilling race of rubber ducks down the bore drain at the Artesian Waters Caravan Park in Yowah.

▶ A little slice of rural paradise –Alroy Station offers tranquil bush camping, spectacular night skies and camp oven dinners.

▶ More than just a caravan park –Wyandra Post and General Store Caravan Park hosts an original 1909 jail cell, old style open air theatre and dune buggy town tours.

CUNNAMULLA Population: 1,300 CUNNAMULLA FELLA

EXPLORE BULLOO

INCORPORATING

THE TOWNS OF Thargomindah; Hungerford; Noccundra; Cameron Corner

@explorebulloo

@explorebulloo

#thargomindah #channelcountry

More than just a One Night Stand

Self-guided Town Tours

Did you know, Thargomindah was the first town in Australia, and third in the world, to produce hydro-electric power for street lighting. How is this possible you may ask. Well, like many western towns, Thargomindah is situated over the Great Artesian Basin. In 1898, using water that is forced out from pressure, street lights were powered by means of generators coupled to a water turbine driven by the bore’s natural water pressure. Take a self-guided town tour to experience the Hydro Power along with our Historic Old Hospital built prior to 1888 and the Jail built in the 1930s. The tour includes holograms, documentaries, projections and animatronic mannequins that come alive to tell tales of yesteryear. You can purchase your tour card at the Visitor Information Centre.

Hungerford and Currawinya National Park

Hungerford is located 164km south of Thargomindah, near the Paroo River on the Queensland/NSW border, and still has a Border Gate, which doubles as the Dingo Barrier Fence. The Royal Mail Hotel was established in 1873, and from 1875 through to 1904 was a Staging Post for Cobb and Co Coaches. It’s now a heritage listed hotel but is still in operation today, being the focal point of the town. Just north of town lays Currawinya

National Park, one of Queensland’s largest which contains many Indigenous Australians’ sites of cultural significance. Lakes Numalla and Wyara within the park are listed as Ramsar wetland sites of international importance with over 200 bird species recorded. This makes Currawinya a bird watcher’s paradise.

Noccundra

The present hotel was built in 1882 of sandstone quarried from Mt Pool in New South Wales and transported by camel train. The hotel is all that survives of the town today, listed by the National Trust in 1977, and a popular spot for caravanners to spend a week camping beside the Wilson River.

Burke and Wills Dig Tree

The Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ is one of Australia’s national icons and an enduring reminder of our pioneering spirit. Located on the northern bank of Cooper Creek on Nappa Merrie Station, it’s a Coolibah tree believed to be 200-250 years old.

Cameron Corner

Where the three states of QLD, NSW and SA meet. The Cameron Corner Store was first opened by the late Sandy Nall in May 1989. Inside you’ll find information on the world’s longest fence, the Dingo Barrier Fence, which stretches over approx. 5,500km.

THARGOMINDAH Population: 200

THARGOMINDAH

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah

P 07 4621 8095 E tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au explorebulloo.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Make the Visitor Information Centre your first stop. Local knowledge and passionate staff are what you will find along with a beautiful, spacious area to stretch your legs and find out all there is to know about the Bulloo Region.

▶ The ‘Shearers Shindig’ will be held 26 – 27 May 2023 in Thargomindah. This is an iconic Outback event for the whole family, from young to old. It is where our community makes visitors feel like locals so keep your eyes out for this awesome event.

▶ Our walking path surrounds Thargomindah, with just over 5km of sealed path which is fully solar lit. This path guides you to all of our attractions including a nature walk along the river and right though to the Hydro Power Plant. The perfect place to take in the vastness of the real Outback sunsets.

BAILEY BAR CARAVAN PARK

G’day, come and stay .. for your total Outback experience as featured on Discover Downunder & Queensland Weekender

▶ BBQ and hobby horse racing

▶ Camp oven dinners | Spit roast dinners

▶ Grassy/shady sites

▶ Luxury and standard en-suite cabins

196 King Street, Charleville

▶ FREE Wi-Fi hotspot

▶ Polite pets welcome

▶ Ask for your STAY ‘n SAVE Vouchers

P 07 4654 1744 E baileybar@bigpond.com charlevillebaileybar.com.au

TRAVEL WEST OUTBACK TOURS

Enjoy a delicious date loaf morning tea while admiring rows of magnificent palm trees. Be inspired by the farmer who turned a long term dream into reality. And best of all – find out how incredibly healthy dates are for you! We do recommend bringing a hat and wearing closed in shoes.

BOOK AT THE CHARLEVILLE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE P 07 4656 8359 E info@murweh.qld.gov.au experiencecharleville.com.au

Discover the Outback with Graham & Deb, owner/operators since 1997.

▶ All inclusive motel accommodated 4WD Tag Along Tours

▶ 4WD Tag Along Outback Queensland Farm & Properties Tour

▶ 4WD Tag Along Birdsville, Innamincka & Corner Country Tour

▶ Specialists in 2-Day Lake Eyre by Air package from Brisbane

▶ 29 day Across Australia Tag Along Tour (Winton to Kununurra)

▶ ‘Birdsville Races in Style’ Air Package from Brisbane

P 0428 545 954

E info@travelwest.com.au travelwest.com.au

HOTEL CORONES – HISTORY & STORIES TOUR

Mulga Lands Gallery is at 96 Alfred Street Charleville – entry is via the Charleville Library.

▶ Open Monday to Friday 9am – 12 noon and 1pm – 4pm

▶ Saturday 9am – 11.30am

▶ Featuring local and touring exhibitions

▶ Entry is free

96 Alfred Street, Charleville www.facebook.com/MulgaLandsGallery

HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUM, CHARLEVILLE

Towns of western Queensland have unique and amazing histories that can’t just be read about, they need to be experienced. Join a History & Stories tour of Hotel Corones, Charleville and…. HEAR Harry Corones’ remarkable story, a man who made Australian history and still holds an Australian record. BE AMUSED by stories of Harry’s comical antics - What does the H.C. stand for on the bar pillars?

LEARN tales of the rich and famous who have stayed at the hotel including Royalty. GAIN 100% exclusive access to some top floor areas and so much more! OPERATES: APR to OCT: Daily; NOV to MAR: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun.

Bookings Essential: Rachel’s Clothing Rack

39 Wills Street, Charleville P 0409 860 114 E hotelcoronesstoriesandscones@gmail.com

Charleville’s Historical Museum is a gem of early colonial architecture and brims with precious collections from the Outback’s past. It reflects the daily life and times, society, music and education of pioneering settlers and the Bidjara people. Be enthralled by fashions, vehicles, steam engine, tools – from making a pie to fixing a coach – used through the ages.

▶ Dog friendly

▶ Toilets

▶ Wheelchair access

87 Alfred Street, Charleville P 07 4654 3349 E historichousemuseum@bigpond.com facebook.com/CharlevilleHistoricHouse

MULGA LANDS GALLERY

CHARLOTTE PLAINS – OUTBACK MAGIC CUNNAMULLA

Charlotte Plains (27,000ha) is famed among camping enthusiasts for its camping haven near the free-flowing artesian bore. Soaking in nature’s hot mineral spa bathtubs under the stars is a great extra with a campfire which adds colour and warmth. Wonder at the history and vastness. Accommodation, camping, new loos, wifi, uhf 26, tours available. Dogs permitted. Planes and buses welcome. Winner of 5 grey nomad awards, highlight being The BEST of the BEST.

‘Stars of Charlotte Plains’ family friendly festival mid June.

Airstrip: Length 940m S28° 04’ E146° 11’

P 07 4655 4923 or 07 4588 8804 (bookings)

E stay@charlotteplains.com.au charlotteplains.com.au

QUILPIE MOTOR INN

Family operated Motel offering quality accommodation with ground level spacious en-suite units set in landscaped gardens with plenty of off-street parking.

Quilpie Shire − a stunning Outback region in South West Queensland that will supercharge your Outback adventure.

Home to Australia’s largest dinosaur ‘Cooper’

The Big Rig tells of all the twists and turns of when oil and gas first flowed in this nation. Venture up the impressive 40m Big Rig tower and enjoy incredible views across the expanse of Outback Queensland whilst learning about the hope, ingenuity and mateship that shaped the Australian oil, gas and energy industry.

DAYS

RIVERSANDS WINES

Visit our cellar door – bring a friend

 Free wine tasting  Garden café  Group functions  Unique gift s

 Caravan parking  Pets welcome in the garden

Riversands Easter in the Vines held on Easter Saturday & Sunday

Free entry  Live music  Family fun  BBQ lunch packs & café

Riversands Taste of Balonne Long Table held down the vines on Australia Day

Open 7 days | Mon to Sat 9am – 5pm | Sun 9am – 4pm

66 Whytes Road, St George Q 4487 | P: 07 4625 3643

E: sales@riversandswines.com | www.riversandswines.com

NINDIGULLY PUB

In 1864 Nindigully was issued its liquor licence. Camping is ample and free between the pub and the Moonie River. Pub toilets and showers are open 24/7 and are free. We do have accommodation in-house. We are well known for building Australia’s biggest burgers from 5.5 to 25 kilos! We provide free live entertainment every weekend from Easter to October.

The last Saturday in November is reserved for RFDS Nindigully Pig Races – in 2021 we raised $57,000 in one day for RFDS.

Sternes Street, Nindigully Q 4497 | P: 07 4625 9637

E: nindigullypub@hotmail.com | www.nindigullypub.com.au

SANDYTOWN RIVER CRUISES

Allow Sandytown River Cruises (SRC) to showcase to you

St George’s financial engine – the mighty Balonne River, a small but very important part of SW Queensland’s inland river system described as a ‘cheering sight’ by Sir Thomas Mitchell in 1846. SRC offers an informative two hour ‘sunset’ river cruise highlighting the river, flora, fauna and various other points of interest.

For bookings contact Brett on his mobile, by email or Facebook *This symbol nominates products that have gained certification under the ECO Certification program.

P: 0400 219 379 | E: info@sandytownrivercruises.com www.sandytownrivercruises.com

HEBEL HOTEL & GENERAL STORE

Hebel, the gateway to Queensland on the Castlereagh Highway. Established in 1887 as a Cobb & Co Post, and still today in its original iconic structure, Hebel Hotel & General Store offers free camping behind the hotel and in conjunction with the General Store offers meals/snacks 7 days a week. $11 powered sites; accommodation consists of fully self-contained cabins to family, double and single rooms. A great safe place to camp and explore our wonderful region including the delights of Lightning Ridge and Goodooga.

30-34 William Street, Hebel Q 4486 | P: 07 4625 0920

E: info@hebelhotel.com.au | www.hebelhotel.com.au

FAR WEST

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF Diamantina, Barcoo and Boulia

If you are searching for offbeat characters and unconventional adventures, then head west –far west – 1500 kilometres or about 17-hours straight drive west of Brisbane to the farthest corner of Queensland.

This is the land of red sand dunes, gibber flats, waterholes and channel country. Diamantina Channel Country is a riverine desert and a spectacular natural phenomenon. During and after the wet season it transforms into a vast network of veins of shallow interconnecting channels and creeks that fill and spill across 95,000 square kilometres, swelling waterholes and attracting up to 450,000 birds including packs of chattering zebra finches, Australian bustards and even the

extremely rare Night Parrot. The desert blooms to life with a stunning display of wildflowers after rain – a sight to behold and a photographer’s delight. Famed for the iconic Big Red Bash in July and the Birdsville Races in September for bringing a big crowd together, there’s always time and space to think in the Far West region.

Nothing is more iconic than standing atop Big Red at sunset, watching the sun dip from the first sand dune of the Simpson Desert (Munga-Thirri National Park). The most popular route west is to take the Warrego Way from Brisbane – Chinchilla – Roma – Charleville – Windorah – Birdsville and travel via desert roads for the opportunity to travel between the three states.

Main Big Red Bash, Birdsville Inset, (L-R) The Min Min Light Encounter, Boulia; Cooper Creek near Windorah; Bedourie Visitor Information Centre

Birdsville Billabong, Birdsville

DIAMANTINA SHIRE

WHERE THE DESERT MEETS THE CHANNEL COUNTRY

Birdsville; Bedourie; Betoota

@TheDiamantina @diamantinaqld

#thediamantina #birdsville #bedourie #betoota #outbackqueensland

Simple Pleasures, Great Adventures

Birdsville

BIG RED – Sunrise or sunset on Big Red, the tallest dune in the Simpson Desert, is a must. Only 35km from Birdsville on a mostly sealed road, either test your 4WD skills and conquer the sand dune, or work your leg muscles and walk to the top. The view is worth it!

Please be respectful of this ancient landscape – it is a natural environment on a private pastoral property. BYO snacks and drinks. Tours and scenic fl ights are also available.

PELICAN POINT, BIRDSVILLE’S BEACH – A great idea is to have a dip at Pelican Point if you have done a lap of the Birdsville Racecourse, or taken a walk around town following the Footprints of Time paintings by local Indigenous artists or explored out at the cemetery. A swim in the calming waters at Pelican Point is sure to rejuvenate after your long trip. The bird life is truly remarkable at the billabong and so is sunset.

Bedourie

BEDOURIE ARTESIAN SPA & AQUATIC CENTRE

– The healing waters of the Great Artesian Basin await you in Bedourie. The spa at the Aquatic Centre is naturally heated, bubbling up from underground at 30-40 degrees Celsius.

After your spa, cool off in the Bedourie swimming pool located onsite. Entry passes can be purchased at the Bedourie Outback Visitor Information Centre. PISE HOUSE – A mud hut in the main street of Bedourie dating back to the 1880s that reminds visitors of the simple and harsh pastoral life of old.

Betoota

THE SERPENT SCULPTURE – A sight to behold! Just outside Betoota, local First Nations people designed and constructed this creature of ancient times. Nearby is Deon’s Lookout where you can survey the vast plains of the Channel Country before you, and learn about the pastoral history of the area.

Make sure you check out these sites while visiting the town of Betoota.

One to watch out for…

A new attraction due to open in Birdsville is the Birdsville Courthouse Experience which will give visitors an insight into justice in remote Queensland, encompassing storytelling/history from the point of view of both Indigenous and white settlers. You may even get to sit in on a court proceeding thanks to holographic technology.

BIRDSVILLE Population: 60

BIRDSVILLE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

29 Burt Street, Birdsville P 07 4564 2000 E info@diamantina.qld.gov.au thediamantina.com.au

BEDOURIE Population: 90

BEDOURIE OUTBACK

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

13 Herbert Street, Bedourie P 1300 794 257 E visitors@diamantina.qld.gov.au thediamantina.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Pubs – Birdsville, Bedourie and Betoota all have watering holes which are alive with history, where you can get to know the locals and make great memories.

▶ Places to Eat – Each pub has delicious meals that make the Outback drive worthwhile. Bedourie and Birdsville Roadhouses also serve meals, and no trip is complete without a curried camel pie at the Birdsville Bakery!

▶ Outback Rivers and Billabongs – Water abounds, with Eyre Creek and the Diamantina River winding through the region. Cuttaburra Crossing on Eyre Creek is beautiful, with abundant bird life making it a restful spot as you meander through the Outback. It is a well-renowned birdwatcher’s paradise.

▶ The Munga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) –Whether going overnight to Poeppel Corner, or travelling right across the desert and its 1,100 sandhills, it’s a magical experience which immerses you in the wonders of nature. Remember, preparation and research are critical for a desert trip.

BOULIA SHIRE

LAND OF THE MIN MIN LIGHT Boulia;

6 Things to See and Do

1. Min Min Encounter Show

Visit the Min Min Encounter animatronic and laser show telling the legend of the Min Min Lights in a unique theatrical interactive experience. The show is one of a kind and immerses the visitor in its mesmerising tales of the eerie mysterious lights which appear to travellers when least expected. Travellers who camp in the region still report seeing these strange glowing balls of light late at night where no lights should be.

2. Boulia Heritage Complex

Visit the Boulia Heritage Complex, where you can view the history of Boulia from the Prehistoric age to the modern era. Th ere is a 135-year-old Heritage-listed stone house in the grounds and a fossil collection of marine reptiles excavated from the area which is one of the best in Australia. Th e fossilised bones of the Plesiosaur unearthed in this area are a big drawcard to all dinosaur enthusiasts.

3. Heritage Trail

Follow the heritage trail of signs through Boulia depicting the history of its buildings, former historical landmarks and community members. Also view the wonderful murals scattered around town.

4.

Waddi Trees

View the unique and rare Waddi tree stands –Boulia boasts the most prolific growth of these trees in Australia.

Th e last known corroboree tree for the Pitta Pitta traditional owners is a Waddi tree behind the local primary school in Boulia. Th is wood is so hard it can damage an axe, and is almost impossible to burn.

5.

Longest

Camel Race in Australia

Don’t forget every third weekend in July to come and experience the longest Australian camel race, Queensland’s answer to the iconic Melbourne Cup, only with camels. This is an award winning Queensland event and is a great family weekend of entertainment.

6. Enjoy Nature

Bird watching, fishing, yabbying and stargazing can all be enjoyed in this vast Outback landscape alongside the friendly locals.

BOULIA SHIRE Population: 480 in a shire of over 61,000 square kilometres!

MIN MIN ENCOUNTER & BOULIA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

25 Herbert Street, Boulia

P 07 4746 3386 E tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au boulia.qld.gov.au

TOP TIPS

▶ For great food, either meals or snacks and coffee, there is a choice of three localities in Boulia:

1. Maxie’s Café Restaurant located at the Australian Hotel. You can order a camel burger (race losers)!

2. The Boulia Roadhouse for food, fuel and grocery essentials.

3. Camel’s Rest Café located at the Min Min grocery/hardware store for everything you might need.

▶ Check out the Wildlife Haven adjacent to the Min Min store where you will find injured/sick animals being cared for by owners Bob and Val Spilsbury. It is also home to a herd of alpacas.

▶ Australia’s Longest Shortcut: travel from Boulia to Perth on The Outback Way.

▶ Queensland Explore Centre can be found inside the Min Min Encounter tourism attraction.

BARCOO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Jundah; Stonehenge; Windorah

@visitbarcoo @visit_barcoo

#visitbarcoo

Five Hidden Gems

1. Stonehenge Address Book

Have you ever seen an address book entirely made of stones? Just a short 2km drive from Stonehenge towards Longreach (coming from Stonehenge) on the left-hand side of the road, you will see the Stonehenge Address Book. Leave your mark on our Shire!

2. Swanvale Lookout

Situated halfway between Stonehenge and Jundah. At the top of the ‘jump up’ you’ll find a rest area offering scenic views. The perfect place to pull up stumps and revel in breath-taking sunsets. Did you know that the Swanvale Lookout offers free camping?

3. Visit Welford National Park

Take a day trip from Jundah or Windorah where you will find Welford National Park. Wind-blown sand dunes form a dramatic contrast to whitebarked ghost gums, golden-green spinifex and delicate wildflowers.

The Barcoo River, with its large permanent waterholes, dissects Mitchell grass plains and arid mulga woodlands.

4. Windorah – Place of Big Fish

The Whitula Gate Museum offers a trip back in time. An extensive collection of Indigenous artifacts and early settler history is on display. Take a walk or drive around town to see the beautiful sculptures, mosaics, murals and enjoy an Outback sunset on the bright red sand of Sando’s Sandhill. The Wednesday before the Birdsville Races in September is the night of the Windorah International Yabby Races. Join in the fun with live music, dancing and a flutter on a fast yabby!

5.

Cooper Creek is located 10km east of Windorah and is an idyllic free camping area. Visitors and locals alike often take time out to enjoy Cooper Creek. Throw in a line for a spot of fishing – there are yellowbelly in abundance, kayak the channels, have a swim or do some boating.

Whatever way you choose to experience the Cooper, rest assured the serene breezes of the Channel Country will hit the spot for a relaxing holiday oasis. Bring your own firewood to help us maintain the natural nesting habitat for the incredible bird life in the region.

BARCOO SHIRE Population: 267 WINDORAH

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Maryborough Street, Windorah P 07 4656 3063

E windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au barcoo.qld.gov.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Trying to catch a blue claw? Try some cat food, dog biscuits or mangoes in your trap for the best luck!

▶ Looking for rich history? Site of Magee’s Shanty – 90km east of Jundah, this is believed to be the site of the shanty immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s poem ‘A Bush Christening’, not far from the ruins of the Cobb & Co. Pub and the lonely grave of goldminer Richard Magoffin who perished in 1885.

▶ Feeling lost? Our friendly Information Centres have mud maps and local secrets you can’t find anywhere else.

▶ Windorah’s 12km unsealed Nature Drive winds its way through the different landscapes between Windorah Township and Cooper Creek. Forty-five plants have been identified and signposted along the drive.

▶ To find out more about the fantastic events held within the Barcoo Shire during 2023 visit www.visitbarcoo.com.au/events

Cooper Creek

WESTERN STAR HOTEL/MOTEL

The Western Star Hotel/Motel is a unique family owned hotel in the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country. We offer all the facilities and services of a modern hotel:

▶ Bar & poolroom

▶ Beer garden & outdoor sitting area

▶ The Sandhill Grill restaurant

▶ Budget accommodation

▶ Self-contained motel units & cabins

Albert Street, Windorah P 07 4656 3166

M 0429 277 345 E bookings@westernstarhotel.biz westernstarhotel.com.au

BOULIA CAMEL RACES

The ‘Melbourne Cup of Camel Races’ – the iconic Boulia Camel Races is the longest, most prestigious camel race in Australia! The tiny town of Boulia welcomes travellers to its famed camel races on the 3rd weekend of July annually. Large un-allocated campgrounds (no power), amenities, campfires welcome, live nighttime music, fireworks, glamping. Enjoy professional camel racing with Australian originality thrown in – camel tagging, mower racing, novelty races and plenty of humour. An adventure in the land of the mysterious ‘Min Min Light’.

Boulia Racecourse Reserve, Selwyn Road, Boulia P 0428 581 874 or 0429 434 279

E bouliacamelraces@hotmail.com bouliacamelraces.com.au

Bedourie Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre, Bedourie

Channel Country near Windorah

CENTRAL WEST

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF Longreach, Winton, Barcaldine, Blackall and Tambo

Outback Queensland’s central west is the heart of Outback Queensland and wears its history on its sleeve, proudly the birthplace of Qantas, ‘Waltzing Matilda’ and Australia’s Labor Party. Learn about our nation’s workers at the Australian Workers Heritage Centre in Barcaldine, and take a ‘Wing Walk’ on a 747 jet at the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach.

Pioneering history is at the core of the central west and you can explore it in Longreach with a visit to the Powerhouse and Historical Museum, a Cobb & Co. stagecoach ride, a Thomson River cruise and dinner show, and live performances and new state-of-the-art interactive displays at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

For Prehistoric times, visit the world’s only known dinosaur stampede site at Lark Quarry Conservation Park or see the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils at The Australian Age of Dinosaurs museum in Winton, and the Muttaburrasaurus Interpretation Centre in Muttaburra.

Explore Winton’s Rangelands Rifts on a guided tour and experience spectacular sunsets from the ‘jump-ups’ to feel in awe of nature’s beauty.

Delve into the life of a shearer at the Blackall Woolscour. Take a guided tour of the saleyards at Blackall, a great place to experience the excitement of sale days. And a must-do stop is at the famous Tambo Teddies store.

Main Australian Workers Heritage Museum, Barcaldine Inset, (L-R) Turraburra; Powerhouse Museum, Longreach; Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton

Tambo Teddies, Tambo

LONGREACH REGION

HEART OF OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Longreach; Ilfracombe; Isisford; Emmet; Yaraka @experiencelongreach @experiencelongreach #experiencelongreach

Experience our Longreach Region

The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame

Explore the characters and events that have shaped Australia’s Outback, bringing to life the rugged landscape and the incredible stories of everyday people who are at the heart of the Outback.

Founding of Qantas

Follow the history of Qantas through modern interactive displays, aircraft exhibits and tours through the aircraft . At night experience the spectacular Luminescent Longreach sound and light show, telling the story of Qantas through incredible projections on the fuselages of the aircraft .

The Powerhouse & Historical Museum

Step back in time when you visit Australia’s largest preserved rural generating station, left as it was when it closed early 1985. The Longreach Archival Group have collated amazing displays showcasing our proud history. This heritage-listed museum is an absolute must see.

Ilfracombe

Visit the historic Wellshot Hotel for a cold drink and counter meal. This gem of a pub stands exactly as it was some 120 years ago. Just outside

you’ll spot amazing little war museums, and a mind-blowing line-up of unique machinery along the Lynn Cameron Machinery Mile.

Isisford

We have dinosaurs too! Discover a life-size replica of ‘Isisfordia Duncani’, the oldest modern Crocodile at the Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre. Learn how Isisford came to be with a visit to Whitman’s Museum and historic town centre. Keep an eye out for the Outback’s biggest Yellowbelly sculpture.

Emmet

Once a thriving town of thirty, Emmet was a water stop railway siding for the steam train. The town has long gone but the history remains with stories to be found in the railway and shop museum.

Yaraka

If you love stories about trains and the railway then pop into the End of the Line Museum. Have you ever witnessed a view that left you absolutely gobsmacked? The 360º outlook from Mount Slowcombe is one of them. Join the daily sunset tour for awesome views of our beautiful landscape.

LONGREACH Population: 3,500 LONGREACH REGION EXPLORE CENTRE

99a Eagle Street, Longreach P 07 4658 4141

E experience@longreach.qld.gov.au experiencelongreach.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Soak in the Artesian – By this we mean water from the Great Artesian Basin at Ilfracombe’s Artesian Spa.

▶ Delve into the Barcoo – Oma Waterhole and the Barcoo Weir are favourite recreation spots for lovers of camping, fishing and most things water related.

▶ Leap into the Thomson River

Entertainment – Heighten your sunset experience with a river cruise and authentic Outback entertainment. Choose to glide the waterway in old world style aboard a paddle wheeler before a traditional campfire dinner. Or relax with 360º views on the top deck of the catamaran, top it off with a two-course table service camp oven dinner.

▶ Stay a few nights in Yaraka! Whether it be a powered site at the caravan park or a room at the Yaraka Hotel, why not stay a few days to explore the area and meet the locals. Take a dip in the swimming pool with spectacular views of the surrounding mesas. The best thing about a stay here ... all the facilities are within a couple of steps from each other.

DINOSAUR CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA Winton; Corfield; Opalton; Middleton @experiencewinton @experiencewinton #experiencewinton

5 Things to See and Do

1. Australian Age of Dinosaurs

The AAOD Museum, located on The Jump-Up, is home to the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in the world and is Australia’s first International DarkSky Sanctuary. The Ultimate Dinosaur tour includes a guided tour of the Fossil Preparation Laboratory, Collection Room and March of the Titanosaurs exhibition and a self-guided walk of Dinosaur Canyon. www.australianageofdinosaurs.com

2. The Royal Theatre Winton

Established in 1918, Australia’s most iconic open-air theatre is one of only two of its kind still operating in Australia. The Royal Theatre on the main street of Winton operates seasonal programs, including screenings of current releases, classics of yesteryear, Australian movies and Nostalgia nights, reliving the history of the golden age of cinema. Discover the history of Australian cinema and its place within Winton’s local culture at the theatre’s museum. www.royaltheatrewinton.com.au

3. Waltzing Matilda Centre

If there is one song that lives in the hearts of all Australians, it is ‘Waltzing Matilda’. The Waltzing Matilda Centre is the first museum in the world dedicated to a song, boasting state-of-the-art

interpretation telling the story of Waltzing Matilda, Winton and the Outback region. The museum opened in April 1998 and was devastatingly destroyed by fire in June 2015, before being rebuilt and re-opening in April 2018 ... it is the pride of Winton and Outback Queensland once more. The Centre is a landmark celebrating Winton’s resilience and over the years has earned a place in the hearts of many Australians and visitors from around the world. www.matildacentre.com.au

4. Dinosaur Stampede

The dinosaur trackways at Dinosaur Stampede National Monument were formed 95 million years ago when Outback Queensland was a vastly different place. It’s now home to the only known dinosaur stampede in the world. Over 3,300 footprints of these long-extinct dinosaurs are scattered over the rock face. www.dinosaurtrackways.com.au

5. Opalton, Home of Qld’s Boulder Opal Opalton is situated 123km from Winton. It is one of the largest opal fields in Queensland and is known for the quality of opal mined. It is believed that opal was first discovered by George Cragg, a stockman from Warrnambool Station, in 1888. Opalton was once a bustling township with more than 600 men working the opal field. Now the population has dwindled to approximately 25 today. www.qboa.com.au

WINTON Population: 1,134

WINTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Waltzing Matilda Centre, 50 Elderslie Street, Winton P 07 4657 1466

E waltzing@matildacentre.com.au experiencewinton.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Arno’s Wall is two metres high, runs for more than 70 metres and is studded with all things imaginable including the kitchen sink.

▶ Bladensburg National Park – Rugged ranges and mesa topped hills feature picturesque waterholes and spectacular views.

▶ Corfield & Fitzmaurice Heritage-listed building was once Winton’s general store and is now a craft shop and museum highlighting the wool industry and general store heritage display.

▶ The Musical Fence – Designed by percussionist and composer Graeme Leak, it is the first permanent musical fence installation in the world.

▶ Winton’s Diamantina Heritage Truck & Machinery Museum is home to an evergrowing collection of vintage and heritage trucks and machinery, all in working order.

BLACKALL-TAMBO REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Blackall; Tambo

@visitblackalltambo

#visitblackalltambo #betterinblackall #totallytambo

Top 5 Things to See and Do

Blackall’s Historical Woolscour

Discover history in action at the Blackall Woolscour, Australia’s last remaining steam operated wool washing plant. Built in 1908, the Woolscour was deemed a state-of-the-art facility to prepare and wash raw woollen fleece by removing impurities from its fibres. The Woolscour is now a fully functioning Heritage-listed museum that provides a unique and authentic experience for visitors to the region. The Woolscour offers tours seasonally. www.blackallwoolscour.com.au

Blackall Aquatic Centre and Spa

Need some rest and relaxation? Take some time from your travels to indulge in the therapeutic hot artesian waters of the Blackall Aquatic Centre. Set in beach style surrounds with quiet outdoor ambiance, the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy the spacious 20-seat spa, fed from the warm bubbling bore water and the 50m Olympic size pool. Call in for a refreshing dip – it’s heaven after a day’s driving.

August is Festival Time!

Mark your calendars! From 17 – 20 August 2023 the Better In Blackall Festival will be combining the best that Blackall has to offer. This small community explodes into a four-day festival that showcases the spirit of our Outback town. Packed

with local grazing plates, sunset wine and food tastings, street parties, cultural displays, billycart races, BBQ cook-off s, live music and so much more! www.betterinblackall.com

Ben’s

Chicken Racing

Meet Ben the ‘chook trainer’ and his egg-citing ‘ladies’, enjoy a laugh, some fundraising, cold beer and good food on your next visit to Tambo. Every evening from April to October at 5pm the Royal Carrangarra Hotel plays host to Ben’s Chicken Racing. You can join in on this hilarious fun ... if you bid high enough at the auction, you can own a brightly coloured chicken for the duration of the race – proceeds support charities such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service. www.chickenracing.com.au

Tambo Teddies

Did you know teddy bears fit for royalty have been created in the Outback town of Tambo? But these bears are not just for royalty, Tambo Teddies take pride of place in homes all over the world and have made the little town of Tambo the ‘Outback Teddy capital of Australia’. Tenderly crafted from 100% woollen sheepskin, visit the workshop and watch a bear come to life. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the only Teddy Bear Crossing sign in Australia! www.tamboteddies.com.au

BLACKALL Population: 1,408

BLACKALL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

108a Shamrock Street, Blackall P 07 4657 4637 E binfo@btrc.qld.gov.au blackalltambotourism.com.au

TAMBO Population: 283

TAMBO VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

9 Arthur Street, Tambo P 07 4654 6408 E tourism@btrc.qld.gov.au blackalltambotourism.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Download the Blackall-Tambo Region App for your complete guide to our communities, events, attractions and local services.

▶ Take a selfie with The People’s Sign –Blackall’s version of a Hollywood sign hailed a showstopper!

▶ A little-known piece of history that may come as a surprise to some, you can visit the first Qantas Crash Site while in Tambo.

▶ Take the tour at Ram Park Museum and visualise how the pioneers tried to tame the Outback. Various displays and antiques paint the story of Blackall’s colourful past.

▶ Visit Jack Howe and learn about this legendary shearer. Just around the corner, you will also fi nd the Black Stump, another historically signifi cant landmark in our region.

▶ Stretch your legs along Tambo’s Coolibah Walk or Blackall’s Pathway to Health

▶ Check out the latest exhibitions at Blackall’s Bushman’s Gallery or Tambo’s Grasslands Gallery. There are plenty of ‘alfresco artworks’ to enjoy along our Sculpture Trail!

BARCALDINE REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Alpha; Jericho; Barcaldine; Aramac; Muttaburra

@barcaldineregionalcouncil

#barcaldine #explorebarcaldine

Drive the Five

1. Alpha: Gateway to the West

Begin your journey through our region by exploring Alpha. There are 28 murals to discover throughout the town. Call into the Information Centre, located in the same precinct as the Beta Hut and Tivoli Theatre Museum. You can also wander through the Jane Neville Rolfe Art Gallery, Settlers Park and view the artwork of the Fossilised Forest and Scrap Metal Cattle Sculptures.

2. Jericho: On the banks of the Jordan Jericho is a popular camping spot for travellers. Redbank Park is a great place to not only camp but to fish, birdwatch and bushwalk. If you time your adventure right, you can catch a double feature at the smallest operating drive-in theatre in the Southern Hemisphere.

Visit the Crystal Trumpeters, a structure created by local historians which tells the story of the battle of Jericho and also see the barbwire Trumpeter.

3. Barcaldine: Garden City of the West

Discovering Barcaldine starts with a wander down Oak Street to visit the award-winning Tree of Knowledge Memorial. The illuminated canopy is a highlight for a night time visit with the colours changing to different themes throughout the year.

The rich history of the region is on display at the Australian Workers Heritage Centre and the Barcaldine and District Historical Museum.

4. Aramac: Home of the World’s Longest Sculpture Trail

Aramac is the gateway to the Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail. The trail is a 209 km journey with 40 creative scrap metal sculptures. Along the way, stop off at Lake Dunn, Gray Rock, Horsetailer’s Gorge and the Healing Circle.

When you return to Aramac, learn about the infamous Harry Redford (Captain Starlight) and how a distinctive white bull was his undoing.

5. Muttaburra: Home of the Muttaburrasaurus Langdoni

Your first exciting experience in Muttaburra starts with a visit to the home of Queensland’s Fossil Emblem, the Muttaburrasaurus Langdoni at the Muttaburrasaurus Interpretation Centre.

Step back in time and explore Muttaburra’s history at the Dr Arratta Hospital and A.A. Cassimatis General Store and Cottage. Take a selfie at the geographical centre of Queensland sculpture and drive around Muttaburra to survey the locally made public artworks.

BARCALDINE Population: 2,865

BARCALDINE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

149 Oak Street, Barcaldine

P 07 4651 1724 E tourism@barc.qld.gov.au

explorethebarcaldineregion.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Our towns each have their own street art. Do a mini art trail while you are visiting and see how many scrap metal sculptures and murals you can count.

▶ There are over 300 geocaches in our region and we challenge you to stay a while and find them all.

▶ There are a variety of camping options in our region: caravan parks, freedom parks, showground and on-farm camping.

▶ There is a miniature clay village that replicates the Jericho township at the Jericho Information Centre.

▶ Keep your eye out for the miniature Adorabulls in the streets of Aramac.

▶ Do a bit of noodling and fill your buckets with agates while visiting Muttaburra.

▶ Check out the history of one of Queensland’s oldest towns at the Tramway Museum in Aramac, home of Aunt Emma.

...m e than just a museum

Lara Wetlands is a 15,000 acre Station experience 28km south of Barcaldine. Our idyllic bush camping is located around a beautiful wetland. With prolific birdlife and wildlife, Lara Wetlands is a photographer’s dream!

There are unlimited tranquil shady unpowered campsites around the wetlands that welcome all van sizes, mobile homes and tents. Campers can have their own campfire and can enjoy the amenities of flush toilets, hot showers and the thermal Artesian mineral hot pool.

Stop for a night or two... you may just find yourself staying for a week or more.

Drive,

Queensland, Australia

MUSEUM FEATURES

 Luminescent Longreach show

 National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar

 Aircraft tours of the Boeing 747, 707, DC3 and Super Constellation

 747 Wing Walk

 McGinness’ Restaurant

 Founders Gift Store

 Interactive Displays... and much more

 Kids Trail

OPENING HOURS: The Museum is open daily from 9am to 4pm April to October and 9am to 3pm November to March. Special opening hours are available to groups and charters by prior arrangement. Tours operate daily and combination tour packages are also available. Please check our website www.qfom.com.au for museum closures.

WELLSHOT HOTEL

MERINO BAKERY

Award-winning Iconic & Historic Pub, established 1890 with the Coldest Beer

– Wholesome Meals – Rustic Accommodation. Pub Opening Hours: 10am-10pm Mon-Thu; 10am-12am Fri & Sat; 10am-10pm Sun.

▶ Outback Queensland Tourism Awards – 2019 Winner Visitor’s Choice

▶ Grey Nomad Awards – 2020, 2021 & 2022 Best Grey Nomad Stay

▶ QHA – 2022 Outstanding Community Service Achievement

▶ 2019 COVID aaaah! That’s right – that’s the award we all won but just made us more resilient

The Coffee Hatch – specialty coffee, the Coffee Hatch signature blend, homemade pies, savoury mince jaffles, croissants, toasties and lots more tasty treats.

Hatch Opening Hours: 6am-12pm Mon-Sat; 8am-12pm Sun.

20 Main Avenue, Ilfracombe – 27km East of Longreach P 07 4658 2106 E thewellshothotel@gmail.com wellshothotel.com.au

LONGREACH MOTOR INN

$2 MERINO MONEY – Present this advertisement to be stamped at the Merino Bakery and receive your gift of $2 off any purchase.*

▶ Minimum sale amount $5.00

▶ One stamp per family per visit

▶ Not redeemable for cash

▶ Offer expires 31 December 2023

▶ Open 7 Days

120 Eagle Street, Longreach

P 07 4658 1715 F 07 4658 0045

Right in the middle of town

MITCHELL GRASS RETREAT

Our luxury ensuite tents are the absolute perfect base for your Outback Queensland adventure. Take in the spacious open plan layout and sumptuous King bed with gorgeous linen. Gidyea tents suit one or two guests, while our larger Mulga tents are great for twin share or families – with the option of Adventure Swags for kids! Add on our delicious Cheese & Antipasto Platters and BBQ packs. We also offer fully accredited accessible tents with King or Twin bedding. Groups and corporate or wellness retreats are welcome.

162 Longreach Muttaburra Road, Longreach

P 0418 758 014 E reception@mitchellgrassretreat.com.au mitchellgrassretreat.com.au

▶ 57 rooms ranging from Budget to Executive King

▶ Family friendly with 2-bedroom Family Rooms & Open Plan Family Rooms

▶ FREE wifi & undercover parking

▶ Shuttle Service within Longreach area

▶ Salt water pool, sauna & BBQ area + guest laundry facilities

▶ Onsite licensed dining Harry’s Restaurant & Bar – Longreach’s #1 rated restaurant

▶ We cater for travellers, tourists, corporates, families, coaches, large groups & long stays

84 Galah Street, Longreach

P 07 4658 2322 E info@longreachmotorinn.com.au longreachmotorinn.com.au

MUDDY DUCK TOURIST PARK

Longreach’s newest caravan park is set along the banks of the Thomson River.

▶ Large drive through sites

▶ Brand new amenities

▶ Powered camping

Keep up to date with all the news on Instagram and Facebook.

Old Landsborough Highway, Longreach

P 0484 683 399 E admin@muddyduck.com.au muddyduck.com.au

Upstairs

Real outback people. Authentic stories.

Pioneer-inspired experiences. A genuine welcome.

Outback Pioneers takes you deeper into iconic Australia with hosts who live and breathe the outback life. Your days and nights will captivate you with a different reality. You’ll be inspired. You’ll laugh. You’ll leave more than a little in love with our wide brown land, its heritage and its uniquely unforgettable moments

Holidays and experiences: April to October 2023. The

If you are serious about discovering our region, one night is simply not enough. Extend your stay to experience our part of the Outback

LONGREACH TOURIST PARK AND RESTAURANT

LONGREACH SCHOOL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION TOURS

Premier tourist accommodation and caravan park with everything you need for a comfortable and leisurely stay in the gateway to the Outback. Offering a range of accommodation options, including camping, caravanning and fully self-contained accommodation. The park is pet friendly for all van accommodation. Located less than 2km from the town centre and close to the airport, Qantas Founders Museum and Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame are a short walk away. The Woolshed Bar and Grill is an Australian style restaurant specialising in smoked meats and steaks.

12 Thrush Road, Longreach P 07 4658 1781 (reservations)

E reservations@longreachtouristpark.com.au longreachtouristpark.com.au

Join us in touring one of the world’s largest classrooms. Experience and explore learning through the eyes of our students. Observe our school in action and learn how technology has changed the way students learn in the bush and beyond.

Tours run twice daily Monday to Friday from March through to the end of October (excluding public and Christmas holidays). Bookings are essential – www.lsodetours.com.au

10349 Landsborough Highway, Longreach Qld P 0477 298 104 E tours1@eq.edu.au lsodetours.com.au

LONGREACH MOTORS

▶ Mechanical Repairs and Servicing

▶ Truck Repairs and Servicing

▶ Tyres, Wheels and Alignments

▶ Exhaust, Brakes and Suspension

▶ 4WD Fitouts, Bullbars and Lighting

▶ Fridges and Camping Accessories

33 Swan Street, Longreach P 07 4658 1700 F 07 4658 1857 E longreachmotors@bigpond.com tyrepower.com.au

Australia’s Dinosaur Trail in Queensland’s Outback is an exciting adventure, where you can follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this ancient land. The trail links the towns of Richmond, Hughenden and Winton where some of the world’s most amazing fossils are still being found. A journey along the Dinosaur Trail offers visitors a range of unique experiences not available anywhere else in the world, let alone Australia! It provides visitors with a rare opportunity to see world-class fossils, Australia’s best-preserved dinosaur skeleton, and to try uncovering their own fossils.

HUGHENDEN

Flinders Discovery Centre Hughenden

P (07) 4741 2970 | E info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

RICHMOND

“The Fossil Capital of Australia”

Kronosaurus Korner

P (07) 4719 3390

E enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

WINTON

Winton Visitor Information Centre

Waltzing Matilda Centre

P 1300 665 115 | E waltzing@matildacentre.com.au www.experiencewinton.com.au

Wellshot Hotel, Ilfracombe

Rangelands Outback Camp is an exclusive 6 (six) luxury tent camp for only 12 pampered guests who get to experience the “Ultimate Outback Adventure”.

Sitting on top of an ancient “Mesa” millions of years old, Rangelands o ers 21st century style and comfort with supersize tents, king size beds and top designer touches. A spectacular “outback view” shower is one of the many highlights of the stay.

Rangelands Outback Camp is located in the remote Channel Country on Rangelands Station, a working cattle property 10km north of Winton.

Red Dirt Tours will take you to locations you don’t have access to when you drive yourself and provide informative commentary on Winton’s unique landscape, flora, fauna, history and pre-history.

So, take a break from driving. Sit back, relax and let Red Dirt Tours do the driving for you. Check availability and book online at www.reddirttours.com.au

Rangelands Outback Camp, Dinosaur Country,

Qld P: 0411 884 499 E: john@rangelandscamp.com

rangelandscamp.com

1800 568 968 reddirttours.com.au

Australia’s only Outback film festival turns 10 in 2023 and you are invited to the party

For nine days Hollywood of the Outback rolls out the red carpet with an overflowing program for all to enjoy

23 June – 1 July 2023 Winton, Queensland

Films | Events | Tours | Workshops Walk of Fame | Australian Film Legends

www.visionsplendidfilmfest.com

 Dinosaur Stampede & Merton Gorge

 Carisbrooke Station

 Diamantina River & Old Cork

 Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum  Rangelands Rifts & Sunsets  Bladensburg National Park

Winton

ROYAL THEATRE WINTON: OPEN-AIR CINEMA

TATTERSALLS HOTEL & VAN PARK

Enjoy one of the world’s most unique cinematic venues under the Outback Queensland sky.

▶ Historic open-air cinema established in 1918

▶ Family venue on the main street

▶ Museum showcasing cinematic history

▶ Over 200 authentic canvas deck chairs

▶ Tickets sold at door, scan QR code to see what’s on 69 Elderslie Street, Winton E info@royaltheatrewinton.com.au royaltheatrewinton.com.au

WINTON OUTBACK FESTIVAL

Tattersalls Hotel, on Elderslie, is Winton’s oldest standing public-house – an ongoing testimony of the pioneer era, pastoral, mining and tourism industries of the region. Boasting a colourful public bar, alfresco dining, extensive menu and wine list, Liquor Legends bottle shop, pokies, keno and ATM. Tattersalls Van Park is walking distance to attractions, banks, post office, pool, hotels, cafes, bakery, Liquor Legends bottle shop and counter meals. All sites are powered and watered – guest laundry and hot water. Site bookings can be made at Tattersalls Hotel.

Tattersalls Hotel 78 Elderslie Street, Winton

Tattersalls Van Park Werna Street, Winton (opp Tattersalls Hotel)

P 07 4657 1309

19 – 23 September 2023 (School Holidays)

Whip out to Winton to celebrate the biennial Outback Festival, Australia’s quirkiest festival, perfect for families or anyone who loves the Aussie Outback. The festival’s hilarious signature event, the Quilton Australian Dunny Derby, will top off five days of quintessential fun, including gruelling sporting challenges, novelty Aussie events, warm Outback hospitality and nightly live entertainment.

P 07 4657 1558 | 0429 806 140

E info@outbackfestival.com.au outbackfestival.com.au

NORTH GREGORY HOTEL

An Art Deco building rich in history linked to Waltzing Matilda, Qantas and even LBJ. Airconditioned ensuite rooms overlooking the main street with a lift, free wifi, artesian spa, restaurant, beer garden, entertainment, TAB, Keno, Pokies, laundromat and more!

67 Elderslie Street, Winton P 07 4657 0647 E info@northgregoryhotel.com

northgregoryhotel.com

WINTON OUTBACK MOTEL

▶ Home of the Winton Outback Surf Club!

▶ Multi award-winning Motel & Owners

▶ Free & FAST Wi-Fi

▶ 3 core principles are 1. Comfort 2. Service 3. Value

▶ Undercover, as well as large vehicle, parking

▶ 2 mins flat walk to pubs/dining & shops

95 Elderslie Street, Winton

P 07 4657 1422 E info@wintonoutbackmotel.com wintonoutbackmotel.com

OPEN DAILY 9am to 4pm

SPAR A pa rt o f ou r commun i t y O u r awa rd - w i fami l y- owned superma rket has been o W inton commun i t y qual i t y g roce r ies s in Fr e s h f r u i t a n d ve g

A part of our community. Our award-winning family-owned supermarket has been offering the Winton community quality service since 1984.

AT M

▶ Fresh fruit and veg

▶ BBQ chickens

▶ ATM + Phone recharge

I ce

▶ Local meat in-store

▶ Ice

▶ Easy access

B B Q c h i c k Ph o n e r e c h B a i t

c n r V in d e x & M a n u ka S t r e e t s, W i n to n Q

Cnr Vindex & Manuka Streets, Winton

P : ( 07 ) 4 6 5 7 1 2 5 4 F : ( 07 ) 4 6 5 7 1 2 02

P 07 4657 1254 F 07 4657 1202

E : w i n to n@ 5s t a ro nl i n e . n e t

E sparwinton1@gmail.com

WINTON’S DIAMANTINA TRUCK MUSEUM

Take a nostalgic trip into Transport History ...

▶ Historic Trucks, Vehicles & Machinery

▶ Toots’ Truck – Australian legendary female truckie

▶ 1948 Leyland Hippo Livestock Roadtrain

▶ Story Board Exhibition, Photographic collection, Merchandise & Transport memorabilia

Situated on the Winton to Hughenden Road

P 0429 806 140 wintontruckmuseum.com.au

E heritagetruckswinton@hotmail.com.au

TAMBO TEDDIES

Tambo Teddies create innovative quality Australian made 100% natural woollen products. We produce cuddly soft teddy bears, echidnas, koalas and are the makers of the original flat teddy, the Bickie Bear. A must stop in Tambo, pop into the workshop and watch your bear be created.

17 Arthur Street, Tambo P 1300 185 638

E info@tamboteddies.com.au

tamboteddies.com.au

BEN’S CHICKEN RACING TAMBO

Only at Royal Carrangarra Hotel, Tambo

▶ April 1st – October 31st

▶ 7 nights a week at 5pm

▶ Family friendly entertainment | free entry

▶ Help fundraise for charity

25 Arthur Street, Tambo

P 0474 013 588 E benschickenracing@icloud.com chickenracing.com.au

AUSTRALIAN AGE OF DINOSAURS

BETTER IN BLACKALL FESTIVAL

▶ The Museum includes the most productive Fossil Preparation Laboratory in the Southern Hemisphere, the Reception Centre and Collection Room, Dinosaur Canyon – featuring life-sized prehistoric animal exhibits and the March of the Titanosaurs exhibition.

▶ Experience Australia’s first International Dark-Sky Sanctuary at the Gondwana Stars Observatory.

▶ See the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in the world and even touch a real dinosaur bone!

▶ Located atop a towering mesa known as The Jump-Up in Winton, Queensland.

▶ Tours commence from 9am.

Lot 1 Dinosaur Drive, The Jump-Up Dark-Sky Sanctuary, Winton P 07 4657 0078 E info@aaod.com.au australianageofdinosaurs.com

August 17-20, 2023 – Ewe’d be mad to miss it!

Get ‘Wild & Wooly’ at the 2023 Better in Blackall Festival. Four days of jampacked Outback indulgence in the home of the Black Stump where you can get amongst the action for the famous Downtown Billy Kart Races; Boogie on the Barcoo with plenty of live entertainment; tantalise your tastebuds at our Outback Eat Street; be inspired by our local pitmasters in the famous BBQ Cook Off; experience Bush Artisans, Heritage displays and so much more!

For more information follow us on facebook and instagram or head to our website – www.betterinblackall.com Life is #betterinblackall

Better in Blackall Festival E festival@betterinblackall.com betterinblackall.com

Alpha

EXPLORE THE BARCALDINE REGION

Jericho

Situated in the heart of central western Queensland, our region offers visitors a warm, Outback welcome and experience.

Barcaldine

Aramac

BARCALDINE

Muttaburra

THE OUTBACK WAY

BARCALDINERC.QLD.GOV.AU

AUSTRALIAN WORKERS HERITAGE CENTRE

▶ Winton

▶ Boulia

▶ Tobermorey

▶ Gem Tree

▶ Alice Springs

▶ Yulara

▶ Warakurna

▶ Warburton

▶ Tjukayirla

▶ Laverton

Through the Heart of Australia – from Laverton WA to Winton QLD – 1600km of bitumen and 1100km of gravel. BUY the Travel Journal, DOWNLOAD the APP & PODCAST for this Great Road Trip. Tick these beauties off your bucket list: Travel Australia’s Longest Shortcut E info@outbackway.org.au outbackway.org.au

A cultural and heritage styled interpretive centre honouring our nation’s workers.

▶ Journey through 14 buildings housing some 22 displays and exhibitions

▶ Set on over 5.5 acres of landscaped gardens surrounding a bore fed billabong

▶ Enjoy the convenience of our BBQ, picnic and children’s playground facilities

▶ Multi-purpose main street entry with affordable retail destination committed to quality and stylish ranges including Australian gift lines

127 Oak Street, Barcaldine P 07 4651 1949 E awhc1991@bigpond.com australianworkersheritagecentre.com.au

86 Outback Queensland Traveller’s Guide 2023 CENTRAL WEST

Head west on The Overlanders Way, where just four hours’ drive west of Townsville, Outback Queensland’s North West region begins. Passing through Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry to Mount Isa, this adventure is packed with dinosaur fossils, jaw-dropping scenery and mining history that will lead you deep underground. Take a detour to visit the spectacular Cobbold Gorge – with its ‘must do’ glass-bottom bridge.

Follow Australia’s Dinosaur Trail through Hughenden and Richmond to discover a range of unique experiences not offered anywhere else in Australia: the Flinders Discovery Centre and ‘Hughie’ the lifesize replica of a Muttaburrasaurus

in Hughenden, and Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond. While in Richmond cool off at Lake Fred Tritton.

In Cloncurry don’t miss the John Flynn Place Museum, Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum, Clem Walton Dam or Chinaman Creek Dam near Cloncurry. Relax at the Julia Creek Artesian Baths or see a live dunnart at At The Creek Visitor Information Centre.

Immerse yourself in ancient history at Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, Adels Grove and the Riversleigh World Heritage Site with its 25-millionyear-old fossils. Outback at Isa and the Hard Times Underground Mine Tour is a must do in Mount Isa, along with the Underground Hospital and Museum.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Julia Creek, Richmond and Hughenden

Main Chinaman Creek Dam, Cloncurry Inset, (L-R) Water Tower, Hughenden; At The Creek, Julia Creek; Hard Times Underground Mine Tour, Mount Isa

Kronosaurus Korner, Richmond

MOUNT ISA REGION

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Mount

Isa; Camooweal

@outbackatIsa @outbackatIsa #discovermountisa

5 Things to See and Do

Visit Outback at Isa

Book yourself in for a Hard Times Mine Tour and experience life in an underground mine, guided by an ex-Mount Isa miner. Whilst you’re there don’t forget to check out the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and available from February 2023 embark on a walk alongside an Indigenous heritage bush guide as you explore the beautiful Outback at Isa Native Botanical Garden right here in the heart of Mount Isa. Learn about traditional bush methods used to make tools, medicine and food firsthand.

This brand new 90 minute tour covers Aboriginal culture in the Mount Isa History Museum and adventuring through the park. The tour also includes 30 minutes behind the scenes at the local neighbouring fish hatchery. www.discovermountisa.com.au

Enjoy a historic tour of Mount Isa and Mary Kathleen Mine

North West Tours are the one stop shop for exploring and learning about the history of Mount Isa and surrounds. From mining to royal visits, a visit in one of these buses is a must do, even locals learn a little bit each time! With half day and full day tours available including trips to Mary Kathleen you can’t turn down a trip with Gary and his team. www.northwesttours.com.au

Underground WWII Hospital

Built during WWII after the Darwin bombing, the Underground Hospital features a heritage-listed tent house in its original condition and is a must visit in Mount Isa. Run by volunteers, tours run daily in the dry season and you can even enjoy a cup of tea and biscuit before leaving. www.undergroundhospital.com.au

Lake Moondarra

Located 16km north of Mount Isa City, Lake Moondarra is an aquatic oasis in the desert. The main water source for Mount Isa and also the location for water sports, barramundi fishing and recreation, a BBQ out at the lake is a must when visiting Mount Isa. If you’re out there at night don’t forget to look up and soak in our Milky Way skies!

Get western at the Isa Rodeo!

Held the second weekend in August each year, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere and the highlight on the social calendar for tourists and locals alike. Rodeo brings the city to life with the CBD closed for the Isa Street Festival on the Wednesday night, Mailman Races and time trials held Thursday night with rodeo kicking off Friday to Sunday. You can’t come out west and not attend the Isa Rodeo! www.isarodeo.com.au

MOUNT ISA

Population: 21,500 OUTBACK AT ISA

19 Marian Street, Mount Isa P 07 4749 1555 E info@outbackatisa.com

100 YEARS CELEBRATIONS

▶ Mount Isa Day – February 23, 2023 –Family Fun Precinct

▶ Mount Isa 100 Year Reunion Dinner and Ball – May 6, 2023 – Mount Isa Mines

Entertainment Centre

▶ North West MPX – May 10-11, 2023 –Mount Isa Civic Centre

▶ Outback Queensland Golf Masters (Mount Isa) – July 21-23, 2023 –Mount Isa Golf Club

▶ Mount Isa Street Festival 100 Years

Celebrations – August 9, 2023 –Mount Isa CBD

▶ Mount Isa Mines Rodeo 100 Years

Celebrations – August 11-13, 2023 –Buchanan Park

▶ Drovers Camp Festival – August 25, 2023 –Camooweal Drovers Camp

FOR MORE MOUNT ISA EVENTS

INFO PLEASE VISIT: www.mountisa.qld.gov.au/100years

McKINLAY SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Julia Creek; McKinlay; Kynuna; Nelia

@JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre @juliacreekqld

#juliacreek #mckinlay #kynuna #nelia

Julia Creek – more than just the ‘Gateway to the Gulf’

The major centre of McKinlay Shire, Julia Creek, is ideally situated on the Overlanders Way (Flinders Highway) which spans the Outback from Mount Isa to the coastal city of Townsville. The Shire is connected by a fully-sealed network of roads connecting McKinlay – with the Walkabout Creek Hotel made famous by Crocodile Dundee and the annual McKinlay Races; Kynuna which was put on the map by Banjo Paterson with the penning of WaltzingMatilda and the shearers’ strike at Dagworth Station and of course, the famous Blue Heeler Hotel and then we have a small, quaint town of Nelia with a beautiful brolga sculpture.

At the Creek

Learn about the lifestyle and history of the area at the Visitor Information Centre known as ‘At the Creek’. Never heard of a dunnart? Meet these cute but feisty creatures at the daily Feeding Shows. Never been mustering in helicopter? Why not try the virtual reality helicopter mustering experience. Don a VR headset and immerse yourself into a station muster featuring horses, cattle, choppers and motorbikes.

RV Friendly

Julia Creek offers a 96 hour stay for RVs and fully self-contained caravans. Although free, a permit is required from the Camp Hosts during high season (April to September) or from the Visitor Information

Centre during low season. An idyllic spot where you can set up beside the creek, enjoy the breeze, birds and sunsets. Once your 96 hours is up, book in and power up at the Julia Creek Caravan Park.

Julia Creek Caravan Park

Ample powered drive through sites, powered van sites, unpowered grass sites and large grassed areas for camping. There are also self-contained airconditioned cabins and twin single units all at very competitive rates. A few steps from the Caravan Park are the Swimming Pool and Water Park (free entry for Caravan Park guests), Tennis Courts and Dog Off Leash area.

Artesian Bath Experience

The absolute jewel in the crown is the highly lauded Artesian Bath experience at the Julia Creek Caravan Park. There are six artesian bath houses; each containing two clawfoot bath tubs and other salubrious trimmings. Enjoy the stunning Outback vistas whilst taking a soak in the million-year-old water from the Great Artesian Basin. A cheese platter, pamper pack and your favourite tipple put the finishing touches on this award-winning experience. Bookings are essential (07 4746 7108). From June to September, join in the award-winning Bush Dinner nights at the Caravan Park each Monday night, where you can enjoy the warmth of a campfire and hear a local yarn or two.

JULIA CREEK Population: 500 JULIA CREEK

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

34 Burke Street, Julia Creek P 07 4746 7690 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au atthecreek.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Did you know that the roads from Kynuna to Julia Creek and onto Burke and Wills Junction are all fully sealed? We call this route the ‘Barra Express’. Everything you need is available in Julia Creek – food, fuel, gas, clothing, camping and fishing supplies plus much, much more.

▶ Enjoy a day trip from Julia Creek taking in the local sights in nearby towns, rich in so much history. The only thing more Australian than having a beer in the original bar set of Crocodile Dundee at McKinlay’s Walkabout Creek Hotel would be writing your name upon the wall in the Blue Heeler Hotel at Kynuna where the striking shearers brokered a truce. Both ‘swagman’ and ‘squatter’ sank their last drinks at the bar. ‘Stranger, go in peace from here as a friend’ – Waltzing Matilda

▶ Bookings are essential for the Julia Creek Caravan Park Artesian Bath experience Please call (07) 4746 7108.

▶ Book the Julia Creek Caravan Park online at www.atthecreek.com.au

CLONCURRY SHIRE

BIRTHPLACE OF THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE

Cloncurry; Dajarra; Quamby; Kajabbi; Duchess @experiencecloncurry @experiencecloncurry

#experiencecloncurry

Discover the Highlights of Cloncurry

Helping a Mate

Cloncurry was the birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctor Service in 1928. Visit the John Flynn Place Museum which commemorates the inspiring work of Reverend John Flynn, taking you on a journey following in Flynn’s footsteps from the birth of what became the legacy of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Flynn’s vision took him on a lifelong adventure connecting him with the likes of innovators such as Alfred Traeger, who ‘gave voice to the Outback’ with his pedal radios, veteran pilots, nurses and everyday heroes living in the most remote conditions.

Oasis in the Outback

Chinaman Creek Dam is truly an oasis in the Outback and only a five minute drive from the Cloncurry town centre. The dam is a great spot for a picnic, swim, kayak, paddleboard, water ski and fish. You might just be lucky enough to catch a metre barra. A must stop when visiting Cloncurry with the newly upgraded recreation area which includes a playground, picnic area, amenities, boat ramp and swim area.

Unearth Cloncurry’s Rich History

Explore the history of the North West at Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum. Get up close and personal with memorabilia from the Mary Kathleen Uranium Mine, Robert O’Hara

Burke’s water bottle, as well as one of Australia’s most comprehensive gem and mineral collections. Cloncurry Unearthed also boasts Aboriginal artefacts and the breastplate once worn by George, King of Friezland. Grab a cool drink, coffee or ice cream and explore the Mary Kathleen Parklands and outdoor machinery display.

Abandoned Mining Town

See the ruins of the once thriving Mary Kathleen Township. Once a bustling home to almost 1000 residents, today it is a spooky ghost town. The remains of the roadway, slabs of the houses, and garden areas give a feel for what the township was like before it finally closed down. Located 68km west of Cloncurry the township is easily accessible however to get that amazing aqua blue photo of what once was the open cut mine, you’ll need a 4WD.

Beginnings of Qantas

Cloncurry is proud to be involved with the beginnings of Australia’s famous national airline Qantas. History says that Qantas was conceived in Cloncurry, born in Winton and grew up in Longreach. Cloncurry was the destination of the first Qantas passenger flight. An original Qantas hangar is still in use at the Cloncurry Regional Airport. Visitors can see the outside and read the information boards along the hangar.

CLONCURRY Population: 3,705

CLONCURRY UNEARTHED VISITOR

INFORMATION CENTRE & MUSEUM

Flinders Hwy/McIlwraith Street, Cloncurry

P 07 4742 1361 E info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au experiencecloncurry.com

TOP TIPS

▶ Camp Under the Stars – Head out to Clem Walton Park/Corella Dam where you can forget about the rat race and lose yourself in the Aussie bush. Camp under the stars and enjoy the peace and quiet while trying your hand at fishing, enjoying a swim in the dam or having a BBQ with friends and family.

▶ Waterpark and Swimming Pool – If you are visiting Cloncurry during the warmer months the waterpark and swimming pool are must do for families.

▶ Fossicking – Cloncurry is a fossicker’s dream with a variety of minerals and gemstones that can be found in the Cloncurry surrounds. Remember to get a fossicker’s licence before you set off. Visit Cloncurry Unearthed for more information.

▶ Events – Soak up the atmosphere at one of Cloncurry’s famous festivals and events from the Beat the Heat Festival, Curry Merry Muster Festival, Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge, Cloncurry Show and so much more. For event details visit experiencecloncurry.com

RICHMOND SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Richmond; Maxwelton

@kronok @kronok #idigrichmond

5 Things to See and Do

Kronosaurus Korner

Step back in time to when half of Australia was under water and meet the carnivorous creatures that dominated life below the surface. The great inland sea, which covered the Richmond landscape 110 million years ago, has left behind an intriguing story of marine creatures from the Cretaceous period of earth’s evolution. Our self-paced experience allows guests to step back in time and watch our prehistoric past come back to life.

Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre

Built from local fl agstone rock the Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre is a replica of the original Cambridge Downs Homestead built in the late 1860s, housing a small collection of historical displays relating to farming and gold mining in the region. The replica homestead provides a place for the display of local records and artefacts. It is hoped that the Centre will grow as residents, both past and present, offer other exhibits.

Lake Fred Tritton

Lake Fred Tritton has a relaxed, yet energetic vibe and is bursting with activities to excite the whole family. It is perfect for swimming, skiing, canoeing and the playgrounds and water park will

keep the kids entertained for hours. Whether you are walking the dog or taking the kids out for a ride on their bikes or scooters, the walking path is the perfect place for a stroll. For the fishing enthusiasts, the Lake is stocked with 18 species of fish, so it’s a great spot to cast a line from the jetty or launch your tinnie from the boat ramp. Pack a picnic or even a ‘snag’ to sizzle on the free BBQs and enjoy a picturesque Outback sunset. Camping is strictly prohibited at Lake Fred Tritton.

Fossil Hunting Sites

Get your hands dirty and look for your own prehistoric souvenirs at one of the area’s two designated fossicking areas just 12km from town. While you probably can’t expect to find a complete skeletal structure, the chances are good that you’ll uncover the fossil of a small fish or marine reptile, a tooth or squid. A permit and specimen guide can be purchased at Kronosaurus Korner before you head out and anything you find you can take back to Kronosaurus Korner and the team will help you identify your find.

Richmond Bush Sprints

The Richmond Bush Races has become an annual event from 2016 and is part of an expanding Bush Racing circuit – next race August.

RICHMOND Population: 648

KRONOSAURUS KORNER

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

91-93 Goldring Street, Richmond

P 1300 KRONOK

E enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ The best steak in Queensland – You haven’t tasted steak until you taste Moselle Meats’ home grown steak. Processed just minutes from the paddock and aged to perfection. A juicy, mouthwatering culinary experience awaits you.

▶ Visit the Lillyman family at the Federal Palace Hotel where you will find cold beer, good food and great people!

▶ Everything you need in one spot – at the Mud Hut Hotel Richmond!

1. Accommodation

2. Gaming Room

3. Restaurant

4. TAB

▶ The Mayor and his Mare – The ‘found’ sculpture is constructed of pieces of metal and machinery that have been donated by local individuals, families, businesses and properties, and reflects the history and heritage of the Richmond Shire.

FLINDERS SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE TOWNS OF Torrens Creek; Prairie; Hughenden; Stamford

@visithughenden @visithughenden #visithughenden #endlesshorizons

Outback Towns, Endless Horizons

Day 1

MORNING – Flinders Discovery Centre is a great place to start your tour of the region. The fabulous local staff can let you know of any local events happening and assist with tailoring your itinerary and book local tours. Learn about the making of ancient landscapes and the dinosaurs that roamed the area. The museum also holds the stories of local industries, characters and the night sky. The centre has a café, open seven days a week during tourism season.

AFTERNOON – Try your hand at discovering your own fossil at one of the local fossick sites. You don’t need a permit, just some water, basic tools and patience. If digging is not your scene, try fossicking through the main street where you will find locally-crafted and outback-inspired goods.

EVENING – Relax at the end of a busy day by taking in the outback sunset skies at Mt Walker. You can self-drive or take a Sunset Tour with a Ploughman’s Platter provided.

Day 2

MORNING – Porcupine Gorge is one of the best kept secrets in Outback Queensland. Five hundred years in the making and half a day to explore. You can hike to the bottom for a swim, or for the ultimate

experience, take a flying tour over Porcupine Gorge and White Mountains with Fox Helicopter Tours.

AFTERNOON – Take a town tour, which explores local industries, history and the town’s Art Trail. The Art Trail is marked on the visitor’s map and encompasses murals and sculptures.

EVENING – Head to one of the local pubs for a round of pool, a cold drink and a great locally grown steak.

Day 3

MORNING – Head east of Hughenden to Kooroorinya Nature Reserve (approx. 1 hour drive) where you can relax by the gorge and drop in a fishing line. This spot is pet friendly and has great camping facilities as well. The Reserve has a great history with the site coming to life every May for the Kooroorinya Picnic Races which have been running for 106 years.

AFTERNOON – Drop in at Prairie Pub, on your way back to Hughenden. Full of curios and antiquities, the publicans are always up for a yarn and Buff y the buff alo is always up for a slice of bread.

EVENING – Grab some takeaways and head to the eastern dock on the Hughenden Recreational Lake where you can take in the wonderful birdlife and sunset over the water.

FLINDERS SHIRE Population: 1,395 FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE

37 Gray Street, Hughenden P 07 4741 2970 E info@flinders.qld.gov.au visithughenden.com.au

TOP TIPS

▶ Hughenden Recreational Lake is ideal for swimming, watercraft , birdwatching and fishing. There are free BBQ shelters and walkways which are wheelchair accessible.

▶ Torrens Creek Exchange Hotel is the best road stop between Charters Towers and Hughenden. Great pub meals with hotel walls just waiting for you to leave your mark.

▶ White Mountains National Park turns to shades of yellow, red and purple late July as the wildflowers and wattles all come into flower. They can be viewed from within the park, by air or the side of the highway.

▶ Tourist Drives are a great way to see the region. The Shire has three biways which all offer unique landscapes from basalt ridges, beautiful valleys, open downs and plateau viewing points.

▶ The Golden Lab is a funky little retro van offering some of the best coffee and homemade cakes in town. Located on Richmond Hill Road just beside Hughenden Freight.

Old Mary Kathleen Uranium Mine TouR

Go back in time and discover some mining and social history of the 1950’s.

lake moondarra sunset tour the best of mount isa tour

Sit back and relax as the sun sets over the picturesque lake.

Your Tour Includes:

Your Tour Includes:

Your Tour Includes:

The interactive and state of the art Interpretive Centre provides the history, stories, lifecycle and habits of the mighty barramundi. Discover the wetlands and mangroves and learn about the incredible birdlife and stunning southern Gulf flora. (Free Entry)

Guided tours will get you hands on action with the big fish! Tour ‘Behind the Scenes’ of the hatchery, where the magic happens, to see where we spawn our fish and raise baby barramundi, or hand feed our metre plus barra in the ‘Feed A Barra’ tour if you dare. (Prices vary - Book online)

MOUNT ISA UNDERGROUND HOSPITAL & MUSEUM

‘AT THE CREEK’ JULIA CREEK

Including The Beth Anderson Museum and Tent House – Take a guided tour of the tunnels carved in the hillside behind the Mount Isa Hospital, a reminder of the tenacity of the volunteer mine workers who built the evacuation hospital after the bombing of Darwin during WWII. The Beth Anderson Museum is filled with fascinating hospital memorabilia. The Tent House was a quick, inexpensive form of accommodation in the 1930s. Open 1 Apr to 30 Sept; Oct to March by appointment. BOOK NOW – www.undergroundhospital.com.au

63 Deighton Street, Mount Isa P 07 4749 3087 E info@undergroundhospital.com undergroundhospital.com.au

JULIA CREEK CARAVAN PARK

▶ Awarded Best Visitor Centre in Queensland in 2019

▶ Virtual reality helicopter mustering experience

▶ Brochures, maps, itineraries, travel bookings and iconic souvenirs

▶ Interactive film, photographic and audio displays housed in historical fettler’s cottages featuring the region’s proud and honest history

▶ Nocturnal viewing area of dunnarts + daily feeding shows

▶ The new ‘Beneath the Creek’ experience lets you unearth

Julia Creek’s geological and geographical features

34 Burke Street, Julia Creek P 07 4746 7690 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au atthecreek.com.au

JULIA CREEK – 96HR RV FRIENDLY AREA

▶ Artesian Bath Houses

▶ Awarded Gold – Caravan & Holiday Parks at Qld Tourism Awards; Silver – Australian Tourism Awards

▶ Famous Bush Dinners Monday nights June–September

▶ Self-contained cabins/ budget accom

▶ Unpowered & powered van sites

▶ Powered sites on grass for motor homes & camping

▶ Large grassed camping area

▶ New amenities block & laundry

▶ Well behaved pets welcome

▶ Camp kitchen –communal BBQ & TV Cnr Julia Street & Old Normanton Road, Julia Creek P 07 4746 7108 E jccaravanpark@mckinlay.qld.gov.au jccaravanpark.com.au

Suitable for self-contained RVs and Caravans (must have a toilet and shower on board), this FREE camping area adjacent to Julia Creek is an ideal spot to observe the wildlife or to wet the line. Cruiser bikes so you can pedal up town, water and picnic tables are all provided free of charge. On Monday nights from June to September the iconic Julia Creek Caravan Park Bush Dinners are held – all welcome! Permits obtained from the Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre or Volunteer Camp Hosts on site. If you wish to be an RV Camp Host Volunteer in 2023, please contact the award-winning Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre – the centre was crowned the best in Queensland in 2019. Contact ‘At the Creek’ Visitor Information Centre for directions P 07 4746 7690 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au atthecreek.com.au

WELCOME TO OUR BACKYARD!

› Camping & caravan sites

› Choice of sites in The Grove or our Top Campground suitable for solar, pets or generators

OR

› Ensuite rooms, queen, twin, single or family › Bushranger Quarters rooms with shared facilities

› BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

HUGHENDEN SUPERMARKET

Spar Supermarket for all your grocery needs ...

▶ EFTPOS

▶ Ample Parking

▶ Frozen Food

Situated on Lawn Hill Creek and only 10km from Lawn Hill Gorge with road and air access e: reservations@adelsgrove.com.au www.wugudaji-adelsgrove.com.au

▶ Fresh Fruit & Vegetables

▶ Cold Drinks & Ice Cream

Friendly Country Service with Weekly Specials

Competitive Supermarket Prices

31 Moran Street, Hughenden P 07 4741 1109

GILBERTON OUTBACK RETREAT

There’s no place like Gilberton Outback Retreat

Unique Award winning prestigious 5 star getaway is waiting for you. A place where you can discover the magic of the Outback and an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, right in the heart of the Outback at Australian’s most hidden Gem.

Gilberton Station, Einasleigh P 07 4062 5329 E gilberton@bigpond.com gilbertonoutbackretreat.com.au

THE DROVER’S CAMP CAMOOWEAL

Droving Heritage Centre (gift shop | coach tours welcome); Opens daily – May to Sept 9am – 3pm.

▶ Guided Tours available May to Aug – 9.30am, 11.30am & 1.30pm – wheelchair friendly (Off season entry avail – phone prior to arrival)

▶ Bush Camping available – $20/night

▶ Drover’s Camp Festival – 4th weekend in August Barkly Hwy, 1km East of Camooweal P 07 4748 2022 E info@droverscamp.com.au droverscamp.com.au

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER MARINE FOSSIL MUSEUM

Explore one of the most complete Marine Fossil & Dinosaur Collections in the world; Kronosaurus Korner, Australia's Premier Marine Fossil Museum.

Highlights

Home to over 1500 world-class fossils

Fully equipped preparation laboratory

Audio guides for a self-paced tour

Award winning theatrette presentation Accredited Visitor Information Centre, Cafe & Souvenir shop

Open 7 days

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day New Year’s Day & Good Friday

kronosauruskorner.com.au

1300 KRONOK enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

PORCUPINE GORGE

Scenic Flight from Hughenden or Porcupine Gorge

Picture yourself soaring over towering cliffs of coloured sandstone, pockets of vine forest and deep permanent waterholes of Porcupine Gorge National Park; a spectacular canyon carved into the earth over millions of years.

WHITE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Scenic Flight from Hughenden or Porcupine Gorge

Experience magnificent views over the red Outback Desert Uplands, dramatic escarpments and gorges. Follow the spring fed Flinders River, the longest river in Queensland. Enjoy exclusive views of a true remote wilderness.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF Biloela,

The easternmost part of Outback Queensland is simply gorge-ous!

The Sandstone Wonders region includes Lake Murphy, Kroombit Tops and Mt. Scoria Conservation Parks, along with Isla and Nathan Gorge, and Expedition National Park –popular for camping and 4WD adventures.

Bring your fishing rod because the fish are always biting here, whether you’re casting off at the Dawson River or Lake Callide. The region is famous for gold mining in years gone past. Cracow, where the gold mine still operates, has a Mining Heritage Centre; and quaint historical villages and museums can be discovered throughout the area.

EAST

Biloela provides the perfect base for your eastern adventure, rich with history which you can discover at Queensland Heritage Park and Spirit of the Land Mural.

Spend a few hours exploring Outback

Queensland’s past – there’s restored churches, railway station buildings, machinery, interactive displays, photographs, family histories and a theatre room that showcases the region’s rich heritage in agriculture, exploration, mining and the pioneering spirit of Australia.

Theodore, Moura and Taroom

Main Queensland Heritage Park, Biloela Inset, (L-R) Sandstone Wonders; Hotel Theodore, Theodore; Robinson Gorge Expedition National Park

Lake Callide

BANANA SHIRE

HOME OF THE SANDSTONE WONDERS

Banana; Baralaba; Biloela; Cracow; Dululu; Goovigen; Jambin; Moura; Taroom; Thangool; Theodore; Wowan

@Sandstone Wonders @sandstonewonders #sandstonewonders #bananashire

Step Back in Time and Discover our History

Biloela

QUEENSLAND HERITAGE PARK Get lost in the showcase of snapshots of the past, the scene set of times past such as a blacksmith shop, the dairy industry, canvas tents being makeshift homes, the farming life, and the men and women who typically lived back then – all set with murals as the backdrop, creating a unique and authentic experience.

BANANA SHIRE REGIONAL ART GALLERY

As the only art gallery in the Banana Shire, the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery offers an incredible showcase of local artists and touring exhibitions. Its collection covers a variety of mediums including Pottery, Prints, Etchings, Oils, Watercolour and Fibre and is representative of a mix of genres by not only past and present local artists but also national artists, such as Pro Hart, Lionel and Norman Lindsay, John Shirlow and Ron McBurnie. The collection is varied and promises delight to any art lover.

Taroom

TAROOM MUSEUM AND THE STAR OF TAROOM Visit the Taroom Museum and follow in the footsteps of explorer Ludwig Leichhardt in the rich farming land around the Dawson River in 1844. Discover The Star of Taroom, an ancient groove stone, a tool sharpener used by Iman

people as a waypoint directing people towards food sources and a boundary marker of traditional country. Hear the story of the return of the stone and its journey of healing and reconciliation.

Moura

MOURA MINERS MUSEUM Experience entering a mine shaft that leads to a spectacular domed roof that represents terrace mining. Pay tribute to the brave miners that have died during the building of the mine and whose names line the walls of the memorial.

Theodore

DAWSON FOLK MUSEUM Beyond the great divide, Theodore must be one of the most lush looking villages. It has the look of a coastal resort, being 140 metres above sea level and 559 kilometres from Brisbane via the Warrego and Leichhardt Highways. On the corner of Second Avenue and Western Lane is Theodore’s Dawson Folk Museum. Housed in an old powerhouse, the museum is a must do for history buff s. Step back in time with a huge collection of regional relics, including an ancient telephone exchange and photographs depicting the town’s early past. The history of early station families, Aboriginal items, and farm machinery are among the exhibits.

BANANA SHIRE Population: 14,513

RURAL HINTERLAND

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

11 Exhibition Avenue, Biloela P 07 4992 2400 E rhvic@bigpond.com sandstonewonders.com

TOP TIPS

▶ Pubs – Biloela, Theodore, Moura, Taroom, Cracow, Baralaba and Wowan each have watering holes where you can get to know locals and enjoy a palmy and schooner of your favourite beer.

▶ Totally Gorge-ous Sandstone Wonders –Named because of the magnificent rock formations and sandstone vistas within our three national parks – Kroombit Tops, Isla Gorge and Expedition.

▶ Outback Fishing – With so many wellstocked rivers, creeks and lakes, fishing enthusiasts come from all over Queensland for the great fishing on offer in these parts. Fishing the rivers and lakes of the Shire isn’t just about the beauties you bring up from the bottom – the catches of fat, freshwater Barra, Saratoga, Cod and Yellowbelly, it’s also the thrill of the chase.

▶ Self-Driving Podcast Tour – Hear the stories of the Banana Shire’s Sandstone Wonders with the Storytowns self-driving podcast tour. Geo-located, you can download the App via the Apple or Play Store (Android) on your phone and let the tour begin!

EXPLORE OUR NATURAL WONDERS

WATERHOLES AND GORGES

Outback Queensland may look dry and rugged, yet across this contrasting landscape is a vast network of rivers, lakes, waterholes and waterfalls to explore.

Highlights include Combo Waterhole, the largest in a string of waterholes along the Diamantina River and thought to be the inspiration for Banjo Paterson’s ‘Waltzing Matilda’. The Birdsville Billabong is a favourite among locals, visitors, kayakers, swimmers and avid birdwatchers. For stunning waterfalls, witness the lush Indarri Falls cascading down to Duwadarri Waterhole on Lawn Hill Creek in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park or relax by a tranquil oasis at Adels Grove.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT EXPLORING THE OUTDOORS IN OUTBACK QUEENSLAND PLEASE POP INTO A LOCAL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

Echidna

Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

FISHING

Year-round warm weather and freshwater lakes, underground springs, beautiful winding rivers and immense gorges make fishing an excellent Outback Queensland activity. Check out waterside campsites for idyllic fishing spots and maybe try your luck in one of the region’s annual competitions.

KEY SPOTS TO FISH

DAWSON RIVER Southern Saratoga, Barramundi, Cod, Black Bream, Eels and Banded Grunter

WARREGO RIVER, BAKERS BEND AND DILLALAH Cod, Spangled Perch, Yellowbelly, Jewfish and Black Bream

LAKE MOONDARRA, MOUNT ISA Archerfish, Barramundi, Catfish, Sleepy Cod, Sooty Grunter and Longtom

MOONIE RIVER, NINDIGULLY Yellowbelly and Murray Cod

THOMSON RIVER NEAR LONGREACH Yellowbelly

LAKE JULIUS, MOUNT ISA Sooty Grunter

NORMANTON, KARUMBA Barramundi

COOPER CREEK, BARCOO RIVER Barcoo Grunter

COOPER CREEK, NEAR WINDORAH Yellowbelly

ADELS GROVE, LAWN HILL GORGE Barramundi, Bream, Grunter, Perch, Cod and Catfish

PUNCH BOWL, JULIA CREEK Cod

LAKE CALLIDE, NEAR BILOELA Barramundi, Saratoga, Cod, Golden Perch and Redclaw Crayfish

FIVE MILE WATERHOLE, NEAR BLACKALL Yellowbelly

PAROO RIVER, NEAR HUNGERFORD Yellowbelly and Catfish

BULLOO RIVER, NEAR THARGOMINDAH Yellowbelly and Yabbies

WILDFLOWERS

Photographers, get your cameras ready – the Outback puts on a native wildflower show like no other, especially just after rain. From dainty desert wildflowers to showy Eremophilas, glorious Wattles and native Mulla Mulla, Outback Queensland is home to some of Australia’s rarest and most stunning flora. Wildflowers are found across the Outback, with popular spots around Thargomindah, Quilpie and the Far West region. Other key places are:

▶ Charleville Botanic Gardens

▶ Thrushton National Park (via Bollon)

▶ Botanic Walkway, Longreach

BIRDWATCHING

Nomadic woodland Bustards, elegant Brolgas dancing in courtship and Wedge Tail Eagles soaring high on thermals – the Outback is teeming with native and migratory birds so there’s fantastic birdwatching opportunities all year-round.

THE OUTBACK’S BEST BIRDS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM

BROLGA around Longreach, Winton and Boulia

EMU many places, but particularly around Yaraka

THE GREY FALCON Cunnamulla

RAINBOW BEE-EATER Combo Waterhole Conservation Park near Kynuna

PURPLE-CROWNED FAIRY-WREN Boodjamulla National Park

HALL’S BABBLER around Longreach, Idalia National Park, Cunnamulla

BOURKE’S PARROT Eulo Bore

PAINTED HONEYEATER dry open forests and woodlands across Outback Queensland

FRECKLED DUCK swamps created by floods in Bulloo and Lake Eyre Basins

CRESTED BELLBIRD across the Outback Queensland interior

MAJOR MITCHELL’S COCKATOO Balonne Shire

NIGHT PARROT location is a mystery – but let us know if you find one!

Wildflowers on the outskirts of Winton

Heli Fishing Adventure at Cobbold Gorge

Brolgas

CAMPING

Camping is super fun in Outback Queensland and it’s an affordable way for families to enjoy a memorable Outback adventure. Many camping areas have creeks, rockpools and waterholes for swimming and bushwalking tracks to explore, so there’s plenty to keep everyone occupied.

Some Outback farmstay properties also have camping options, including Charlotte Plains near Cunnamulla with their popular outdoor baths and family activities, and The Lake near Quilpie, located next to a large and very picturesque lake.

In addition, there are over 35 national and conservation parks in Outback Queensland – check out the National Parks section on the following pages for details.

HIKING AND BUSHWALKING

In Outback Queensland there’s no shortage of incredible landscapes to explore on foot. Here’s a selection of our ‘top spots’ for bushwalking, hiking and trekking:

COBBOLD GORGE, VIA FORSAYTH: The escarpment trail is peppered with native plants like the ‘Soap Tree’ Acacia and Gidgee and offers spectacular views at its peak. If you prefer canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding, then the gorge is an ideal spot.

CURRAWINYA NATIONAL PARK, VIA CUNNAMULLA: This internationally recognised wetland is one of Australia’s most important inland waterbird habitats and a must for birdwatchers! Short walks to The Granites and Budjiti Lookout walks are a great way to see some of the park’s unique features.

PORCUPINE GORGE NATIONAL PARK, VIA HUGHENDEN: Try the beautiful bushwalks along the Pyramid Track or Pyramid Lookout Track to see sandstone gorges, valleys and incredible views over the park.

CARNARVON GORGE SECTION – CARNARVON NATIONAL PARK, VIA INJUNE: Hike through a contrasting landscape of rainforest, towering sandstone gorges, Aboriginal rock art and diverse native flora and fauna. Book in advance for a Guided Tour.

BICENTENNIAL NATIONAL TRAIL / KROOMBIT TOPS NATIONAL PARK, VIA

BILOELA: The Australian Bicentennial National Trail traverses Kroombit Tops National Park with designated campsites along the way. A large section of the trail is only open to hikers, non-motorised vehicles and horses.

RIVERSLEIGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE, BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL)

NATIONAL PARK, VIA GREGORY: Take a step back to the time when Australia was part of the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana. The Riversleigh Fossil Trail is located at one of the world’s most significant fossil deposits, with abundant wildlife and cultural sights to see.

Note: Several tour companies offer guided and escorted walks and treks in Outback Queensland, including local tour operator Trek West.

Trek West, Herbertvale Station

Clem Walton Dam, near Cloncurry

Cooking damper over coals

GEM HUNTING

Family Fossicking fun!

Fossicking for gemstones is one of the most fun and exciting activities for families to do in Outback Queensland. Not only will you experience iconic towns and amazing scenery along the way, you’ll have great fun looking for a gemstone souvenir to take home too. Here are some top spots to fossick across the Outback.

The ideal time for fossicking is April to September to avoid high temperatures and potential rainfall. In most areas you’ll need to buy a Fossicking Licence and be sure to check the rules about tools and digging along with maps to make sure you aren’t on someone else’s claim.

TAKE IN THE VIEWS

Top lookout spots to get the best view (and the best photos!) in Outback Queensland:

▶ Big Red (sand dune), Simpson Desert, via Birdsville

▶ Starlight’s Lookout, Longreach

▶ Boolimba Bluff, Carnarvon Creek

▶ Dinosaur Canyon, Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, Winton

▶ Baldy Top, Quilpie

▶ The Globe Tourist Lookout, Barcaldine

▶ Mount Slowcombe Lookout, Yaraka

Opals, Yowah

OPALTON FIELD NEAR WINTON Opal and ironstone

QUILPIE SHIRE COUNCIL FOSSICKING AREA, QUILPIE Opals

YOWAH OPAL FIELD, YOWAH Opals (‘ Yowah nuts’)

YARAKA Opals

FLINDERS FOSSICKING FIELD HUGHENDEN Fossils, moonstone, peridot

RICHMOND REGION Ancient marine fossils

CLONCURRY REGION

Amethystine quartz, amethyst, alluvial gold, garnets and Maltese cross

Baldy Top, Quilpie

Fossicking near Richmond

NATIONAL PARKS

Bladensburg National Park

In Mitchell Grass Downs and Channel Country, vast grassland plains surround impressive fl at-topped plateaus and sandstone ranges. See an amazing variety of wildlife and glimpse the rich Aboriginal heritage and pastoral history of Bladensburg. Bush camp at Bough Shed Hole, where wallaroos, red kangaroos and prolific birdlife will keep you company. Access is from Winton via the WintonJundah Road and the Route of the River Gum.

DON’T MISS: Drive the 72km return ‘Route of the River Gum’ to discover many places of interest including waterholes along mostly-dry Surprise Creek. Explore the restored Bladensburg Homestead, now an information centre.

Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill)

National Park

A spectacular gorge, with orange cliffs over emerald-green waters, is an oasis within the arid landscape of the Barkly Tablelands and Gulf Savannah Plains. At Riversleigh World Heritage Site, 25-million-year-old fossils reveal our prehistoric past. Bush camp in Lawn Hill Gorge or on the banks of Gregory River. Access is from Mount Isa via the Overlanders Way and CamoowealGregory Downs Road. 4WD vehicles are required.

DON’T MISS: Learn about Waanyi Aboriginal culture at Wild Dog Dreaming and view ancient

rock art and stone engravings. Canoe through the peaceful gorge and spot for wildlife. Discover ancient fossils of mammals, giant birds and crocs on the Riversleigh Fossil trail.

Carnarvon National Park –Carnarvon Gorge Section

Discover towering sandstone cliffs, gorges, ancient culture and diverse nature. Camp in the visitor area during Easter; June to July; and September to October Queensland school holidays, or bush camp at Big Bend year-round. Explore on foot to appreciate this rugged wilderness. Access is from Injune and Rolleston via the Carnarvon Highway and the sealed 45km Carnarvon Gorge Road.

DON’T MISS: Explore hidden gorges and timeless Aboriginal rock art – the Art Gallery has over 2,000 engravings, ochre stencils and paintings along its 62m-long walls. Enjoy elevated views on the 6.4km return Boolimba Bluff walk.

Carnarvon National Park –Ka Ka Mundi Section

Over 30km of remote sandstone escarpments and plateaus dominate the skyline in this remote section of the park. Old cattle yards are reminders of early European settlers. Bush camp at Bunbuncundoo Springs sheltered by overhanging sandstone cliff s. Access is from Springsure via the

TRAVEL SAFELY

▶ Many parks in Outback Queensland are very remote, with minimum services and no facilities. You need to be experienced in remote area travel and self-sufficient with food, water and fuel. Plan ahead; camping permits and fees must be paid in advance. Check Park Alerts for park access, closures and conditions.

▶ For important safety tips visit: www.parks.des.qld.gov.au/experiences/ safety_in_parks_and_forests.html

▶ Connect with Queensland National Parks:

qld.gov.au/NationalParks

qld.gov.au/Camping

qld.gov.au/ParkAlerts

qldnationalparks

Dawson Development Road, Buckland Road and signed tracks through Yandaburra. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

DON’T MISS: Visit the springs and spot a myriad of wildlife attracted to the water, including king parrots, wompoo fruit-doves and swamp wallabies. View Mount Mooloolong’s imposing sandstone spire or Mount Ka Ka Mundi, a remnant of volcanic basalt.

Enjoy spectacular views from Queensland’s highest plateau and culturally significant Aboriginal rock art sites. Camp near the Maranoa River, or at the Rotary Shelter Shed for views, or in shaded woodland near Marlong Creek. Access is from Mitchell or Injune via Womblebank Station. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are recommended. Allow three hours’ travel time from either town.

DON’T MISS: Cultural sites and rock formations, such as Cathedral Rock and The Tombs, on the lower sandstone slopes, and a basalt-crested plateau for magnificent views.

The park’s western-most section features crystal clear springs flowing into Louisa Creek and the Nogoa River beneath sandstone crags and spires.

Carnarvon National Park –Mount Moffatt Section

Carnarvon National Park –Salvator Rosa Section

Carnarvon National Park

Bush camp on the broad sandbank of the Nogoa River. Access is from Springsure via the Dawson Developmental Road and from Tambo via the Wilderness Way loop. 4WD vehicles are required.

DON’T MISS: Birdwatch and admire wildflower displays in spring. Picnic beneath the pink-hued cliff s at Louisa Creek junction.

Combo Waterhole Conservation Park

Waterholes dot the channels of Diamantina River, meandering through Mitchell Grass Downs providing a refuge for wildlife in dry times. Its most famous, Combo Waterhole, may have inspired bush poet Banjo Paterson’s ‘Waltzing Matilda’, our unofficial anthem. Circle the waterhole, spot birdlife and picnic in the shade of a coolabah tree. Access is from Winton along the Matilda Way. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

Culgoa Floodplain National Park

Coolabahs, black box and grasses flourish on this Murray-Darling Basin floodplain. Bush camp beside lagoons and spot waterbirds in the wetlands. Look for emus, mulga parrots, Major Mitchell cockatoos and apostlebirds on the plains. After rain, listen out for elusive water-holding frogs. Access is from Cunnamulla or St George via sealed and unsealed roads. A 4WD vehicle is essential.

Currawinya National Park

Red sandplains, ranges and mulga scrub contrasts with rivers, wetlands and large sprawling lakes in one of Queensland’s largest parks. Bush camp or picnic at Ourimperee Waterhole, along the Paroo River, or at Myninya, a semi-permanent wetland. Discover rich Aboriginal heritage, and pastoral history dating from the 1860s. Access is from Cunnamulla via Eulo and the Hungerford Road. 4WD vehicles are required.

DON’T MISS: Explore Lake Numalla’s sandy shoreline or birdwatch over Lake Wyara. Enjoy fishing, canoeing and spectacular birdwatching and learn about the endangered bilby.

Diamantina National Park

Dunes, grass plains, weathered sandstone ranges and resident and migratory birds feature in the braided channels of the Diamantina River. Bush camp at Hunters Gorge and Gum Hole camping areas. Discover relics from pioneer settler days, enjoy majestic desert views and amazing birdlife. Access is from Winton via the Kennedy Developmental Road and an unsealed track along the Diamantina River. 4WD vehicles are essential.

DON’T MISS: Explore the 90km one-way Warracoota Circuit Drive through land important to the Maiawali and Karuwali people. Visit Janet’s Leap lookout for views of Diamantina Gates.

Expedition National Park

Gorges, cliff s, spectacular views and wildflowers are highlights of this rugged park. Camp at Starkvale (Robinson Gorge) beside its waterhole; at Beilba in woodland with gorge views; or at Lonesome in forest by the Dawson River. Access to Robinson Gorge section is via Taroom or Bauhinia Downs; access to the Lonesome and Beilba sections is via Injune.

DON’T MISS: Hike to a lookout over Robinson Gorge, or Shepherds Peak for valley views. Admire Beilba’s wildflower displays – grevilleas, acacia, flannel and pea flowers – in late winter and spring. Birdwatch by day and spotlight for gliders, geckos and owls at night.

Hell Hole Gorge National Park

The deep gorges, rugged cliff s and waterholes of remote Hell Hole Gorge contrast with the arid mulga landscape. Bush camp near the waterhole and hike along the plateau high above the creek. Spot red-tailed black cockatoos, spinifex pigeons and yellow-footed rock wallabies, and see stunning wildflower displays after rain. Access is from Adavale via unsealed Adavale-Blackall road and Milo-Gooyea road. 4WD vehicles are required.

Craggy escarpments emerge from dense mulga woodland on the Gowan Range tablelands. Bush camp in thick mulga scrub at Monks Tank, take a scenic drive and spot birds and wildlife – there’s six species of kangaroos and wallabies to see! Check out the rusted pastoral-era relics and stockyards at Old Idalia. Access is from Blackall via Isisford Road, Yaraka Road and ldalia-Benlidi Road. 4WD vehicles are required.

DON’T MISS: Walk to Wave Rock, a cliff overhang carved by wind and sun; and Rainbow Gorge, with its white, red and yellow sandstone.

Isla Gorge National Park

Soft precipice sandstone has formed a breathtaking panorama of cliff s, peaks, overhangs, tunnels and arches. See this breathtaking site change from yellow to orange and pink as the sun moves. Enjoy brilliant displays of wildflowers, views or walk the historic hand-paved Flagstaff Road. Stop over on your journey for a picnic or camp atop a cliff face and watch the sunrise over the landscape below. Access to Isla Gorge lookout is from Miles or Banana via the Leichhardt Highway and a short access road.

Kroombit Tops National Park

Sandstone escarpments, gorges, creeks and waterfalls make Kroombit Tops a cool retreat. Bush camp by a creek or blackbutt forest setting. Listen for the endangered Kroombit tinker frog call – a series of sharp, metallic ‘tinks’. Major access routes are from Gladstone, Biloela, Monto or Ubobo. 4WD vehicles are required (2WD access is possible from Gladstone and Ubobo, with limited access within the park).

DON’T MISS: The resting place of Beautiful Betsy, a WWII Liberator bomber that crashed on the plateau in 1945.

Lake Bindegolly National Park

A string of salt and freshwater wetlands provide an important wildlife refuge in an arid landscape –thousands of waterbirds flock to this inland oasis to feed and breed. Enjoy a picnic and explore the 9km Lake Bindegolly circuit around the lake’s edge, birdwatching along the way. See wildflowers in spring. Access is from Cunnamulla via the Adventure Way.

Lake Murphy Conservation Park

Nestled beneath Murphy’s Range in the central highlands, Lake Murphy fills only when nearby Robinson Creek overflows. Following rain, see ducks and large wading birds revelling in the

Idalia National Park

Combo Waterhole Conservation Park

shallows of this ephemeral perched lake, or, in the dry season, watch wallabies graze the land where water has evaporated. Camp in the pleasant semishaded open camping area and spotlight at night for greater gliders and masked and powerful owls. Access is from Miles or Banana via the Leichhardt Highway and Fitzroy Developmental Road.

Lark Quarry Conservation Park

The erosion of ancient rocks has formed a striking landscape of jump-up country with fl at-topped hills (mesas), gullies and steep escarpments. Take the ‘roller-coaster’ drive over the mesas to the shores of a lake where dinosaurs left over 4,000 footprints! Now protected in the Trackways building, the footprints can be visited by guided tour and fees apply – you can buy tickets in Winton. Access is from Winton via the WintonJundah Road. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

DON’T MISS: Experience the age of dinosaurs on a tour of the Dinosaur Trackways. Walk through spinifex and climb broken escarpments to gaze east over Mitchell grass plains.

Lochern National Park

Camp by a permanent waterhole in the shade of coolabah trees. Throw in a line at a waterhole; or kayak at Broadwater Waterhole. Explore the 40km Lochern habitat drive to see historic pastoral relics and watch waterbirds in the lagoon. Access is from Longreach via the Longreach-Jundah road and an unsealed road to the park boundary. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

Moorinya National Park

Dry, fl at plains and open woodlands are crossed by seasonal watercourses providing a refuge for wildlife. Bush camp near the old Shirley shearing shed and explore the park’s internal roads by 4WD or mountain bike. At night, listen for barking owls and look for sugar gliders soaring between trees. Access is from Townsville via the Overlanders Way and Aramac Torrens Creek Road. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

Mount Scoria Conservation Park

This striking mountain, a volcanic plug formed by volcanic activity 20–26 million years ago, rises above plains of grazing land and features basalt columns, rocky scree slopes, open woodlands, vine thickets and diverse birdlife. Explore the short walk to the base of the mountain for views of the summit, the distinctive basalt columns and scree slopes. Access is from Biloela and Thangool via the Burnett Highway and a 5km sealed road.

Munga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) National Park

Queensland’s largest park features 80,000-yearold dunes, with windswept crests and slopes secured by spinifex and cane grass separated by fl at plains of wind-polished gibber pebbles, mineral-encrusted claypans and open shrub. Bush camp under the stars for the exhilarating isolation of ‘big dune’ country. Discover wildlife adapted to harsh conditions such as mulgaras (burrowing marsupials), lizards and birds. Access is from Birdsville via the old Birdsville track, private property and desert tracks. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are essential.

DON’T MISS: Stop for a photo at Big Red to start your adventure. At Poeppel Corner, visit the salt lakes where Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory meet.

Note: All national parks within the Simpson Desert close annually from 1 December to 15 March due to high daytime temperatures.

Porcupine Gorge National Park

Welford National Park

The coolabah-lined Barcoo River slices through Mitchell grass plains and arid mulga woodlands; and spinifex and ghost gums grow atop vivid red sand dunes. Bush camp near the Barcoo River. Explore the Desert. Discover Aboriginal cultural sites, including water wells and stone arrangements. Access from the south is via Blackall, Quilpie or Windorah, and from the north via Longreach or Jundah. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

White Mountains National Park

A rugged wilderness of spectacular white sandstone bluff s and gorges hosts diverse plants and animals. Picnic at the scenic Burra Range lookout or camp in open woodland at Canns Camp Creek. Mountain bike to Sawpit Gorge lookout or Poison Valley. Look for frilled lizards and spiny knob-tailed geckos among rocky outcrops, and in winter see colourful displays of wildflowers. Access is from Charters Towers and Hughenden via the Overlanders Way.

Wiliyan-Ngurru National Park

Wide expanses of Mitchell grass plains and spinifex woodland cover the Barkly Tablelands, while beneath the surface, caves and sinkholes have formed in 500-million-year-old dolomite. Take a picnic break in this peaceful park. Watch for woodland and waterbirds, and stroll to view cave and sinkhole entrances (access not permitted). Explore the park’s internal roads by mountain bike. Access is from Mount Isa via the Overlanders Way and Urandangi Road. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

Towering cliff s of coloured sandstone, pockets of vine forest and the deep waterholes along Porcupine Creek contrast with the savannah plains surrounding Porcupine Gorge. Bush camp near the rim of the gorge and gaze over this ‘little Grand Canyon’ from the lookout. Access is from Hughenden via the Kennedy Developmental Road.

Porcupine Gorge National Park

Munga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) National Park

TRAVEL TIPS

Outback Queensland covers a massive 932,678km2 and can be a daunting experience for a first-time traveller.

Be assured though, we promise it’s a very friendly place, and these tips will make getting there and getting around even easier for you!

Visitor Information Centres

Make sure you pop into the local Visitor Information Centres (VICs) along the way – you’ll always get a friendly welcome and plenty of local advice. You’ll also be able to get required permits, maps, brochures and guides, and local tips on where to go and what to do. Locations of the VICs are listed on the back of this guide.

Escorted tours

Visit Outback Queensland in comfort and style on a multi-day tour accompanied by expert guides to introduce you to key attractions and destinations. Tours are tailored to suit different tastes and needs, from small special interest group tours to senior visitors looking for personal service.

Specialist tour operators servicing the Outback include: Travel West, Blue Bus Tours, AAT Kings, Fun Over Fifty, Boobook Ecotours, Palmers Coaches, Queensland Rail, Trek West, Outback Aussie Tours, Red Dirt Tours and Barcaldine & Beyond Tours.

Pack the essentials

On major highways fuel stops are rarely more than 200kms apart, so you shouldn’t need to carry

extra fuel unless you are heading somewhere more remote. However, when you do see ‘no fuel’ signs, it means exactly that. Check your maps in advance for driving distances between fuel stops.

We do recommend packing the car with road trip essentials. This includes maps of the area, first aid kit, plenty of water, a spare tyre, a good toolbox, a radio and a torch so you’re prepared for anything.

Note: If you are travelling in a vehicle that requires Autogas, check in advance where you can re-fuel. Autogas (LPG) is only available for purchase in Mount Isa, Emerald and Roma.

Check the weather

Hot and sunny days go hand-in-hand in Outback Queensland. The most temperate and ideal travelling weather is between April and October (winter/spring).

If visiting between May and August make sure you also pack your winter woollies. Winter nights can fall below freezing, especially in the desert regions, so you don’t want to be without a warm swag, beanie, gloves and a cuppa.

Outback weather conditions can be very changeable. Dust storms, rainstorms and intense heat are fairly standard. That means road conditions can change almost daily. Each morning, before you set out for your destination, check the road conditions. You can speak to the locals, get information from the Visitor Information Centre or even reach out to police or rangers.

And remember, no matter the season, a widebrimmed hat and sunscreen are recommended for any time of the year.

Time your trip with an event

If you need an excuse to head to the Outback, time your trip with Outback Queensland’s events calendar – chock full of memorable and quirky events all year round.

Not only is the Outback home to the biggest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere (the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo) and the world’s most remote music festival (here’s looking at you Birdsville Big Red Bash), the Outback also offers a huge range of sporting, race, music and cultural events. While most towns have phone coverage with the Telstra network, expect a ‘no service’ reading travelling between towns. A satellite phone and/or UHF radio are always recommended while travelling.

Watch out for wildlife

From kangaroos and emus to camels and echidnas, there is no shortage of wildlife to play ‘I Spy’ with in Outback Queensland.

Most Outback creatures are active at dawn and dusk, when these Aussie animals enjoy grazing on the edges of the roads, and often wander across them in front of unsuspecting cars. Where possible, time driving to the middle of the day, and avoid driving at dawn and dusk.

FOR MORE TIPS VISIT OUR WEBSITE: OUTBACKQUEENSLAND.COM.AU/ TRAVELLERS-TIPS

Be cautious on the roads

Take extreme care when passing and overtaking road trains, heavy vehicles and caravans. Ensure you have a clear line of sight, allow plenty of room and be prepared to move over to the side to overtake.

If a road train or heavy vehicle is approaching you from ahead or from behind, move as far left as possible, or better still, pull right over to the side of the road and stop to allow it to pass, especially if you are towing a caravan or camper.

When meeting road trains and heavy vehicles on single lane roads, slow right down and move to the left. Move off the road entirely if it is safe to do so and stop to avoid driving into any obstacles on the verge. Be cautious in wet conditions as road verges are often soft and slippery, so when pulling to the left, keep your right wheels on the bitumen and move slowly to avoid being bogged.

Check for road closures

Plan your route wisely and check for road closures and road works to avoid unnecessary delays. Be sure to check for updates along the way too in case there has been a sudden change in road conditions. Note: Many unsealed Outback roads get closed after rain to avoid damage to the roads, and also to avoid people getting bogged. Make sure you check roads are open for use after rain; and don’t travel on unsealed roads if the road is noted as closed. The locals in particular get very annoyed when their roads are ruined by cars driving on muddy roads when they shouldn’t be.

Take regular breaks

As with any long road trip, regular breaks are essential. With vast landscapes, seemingly endless horizons and the odd mirage to contend with, the journey can be just as exciting as the destination. We recommend not travelling too far in one day, stopping as soon as you become tired, and taking the time to make pit stops for meals, refuelling and exploring. As a rule of thumb, take breaks every couple of hours to ensure you stay alert for possible obstacles.

Leave the gate as you find it

Much of the vast and seemingly empty Outback is actually covered by huge cattle stations. As such, there’s key road etiquette you need to be aware of. Most important is to leave any gates as you find them. In other words, if they are open, leave them open. And if they are closed, then always close them behind you.

If you get into trouble

The number one rule in the Outback is to always stay with your vehicle. Try to reach help via your mobile, UHF radio or satellite phone. Do not try to walk for help – it’s very easy for people to become disoriented and dehydrated. If you are going to more remote areas, it is suggested to have a satellite phone, UHF radio and an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) device with you.

GETTING THERE

Rail experiences

Jump on board one of five Outback rail services for a scenic route to the Outback, where you can sit back and relax and watch the coast turn to country. Queensland Rail services include:

SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK

Brisbane to Longreach

THE WESTLANDER

Brisbane to Charleville

Bus services

THE INLANDER

Townsville to Mount Isa

THE SAVANNAHLANDER

Cairns to Forsayth

GULFLANDER

Normanton to Croydon

Enjoy a hassle-free holiday with Greyhound Australia coaches, taking you across the major drive routes of Outback Queensland.

Self drive

Embark on the ultimate Outback road trip with major drive routes taking you to all corners of the Outback. You can also pick up a hire car from major retailers like AVIS, Budget and Hertz from Roma, Charleville, Longreach, Mount Isa, Biloela and St George. Or hire a campervan or motorhome from Apollo or Britz Rentals.

Air connections

See the Outback from above. Air services available with Rex, Qantas, Virgin and Link Airways to:

▶ Barcaldine

▶ Bedourie

▶ Biloela

▶ Birdsville

▶ Blackall

▶ Boulia

▶ Charleville

▶ Cloncurry

▶ Cunnamulla

▶ Hughenden

▶ Julia Creek

▶ Longreach

▶ Mount Isa

▶ Quilpie

▶ Richmond

▶ Roma

▶ St George

▶ Thargomindah

▶ Windorah

▶ Winton

Cooper Creek

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Alpha

Rowley Roberts Information Centre

43-45 Shakespeare Street, Alpha P (07) 4985 1050

Aramac

Aramac Information Centre

35 Gordon Street, Aramac P (07) 4652 9999

Augathella

Augathella Information Centre Main Street, Augathella P (07) 4654 5244

Barcaldine

Barcaldine Visitor Information Centre

149 Oak Street, Barcaldine P (07) 4651 1724

tourism@barc.qld.gov.au

BARCALDINERC.QLD.GOV.AU

Bedourie

Bedourie Outback Visitor Information Centre

13 Herbert Street, Bedourie P 1300 794 257 visitors@diamantina.qld.gov.au

THEDIAMANTINA.COM.AU

Biloela

Biloela Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre

11 Exhibition Avenue, Biloela P (07) 4992 2400 rhvic@bigpond.com

SANDSTONEWONDERS.COM

Biloela

Biloela Visitor Information Centre Callide Street, Biloela P (07) 4992 2405

Birdsville

Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre

29 Burt Street, Birdsville P (07) 4564 2000 info@diamantina.qld.gov.au

THEDIAMANTINA.COM.AU

Blackall

Blackall Visitor Information Centre

108a Shamrock Street, Blackall P (07) 4657 4637

Bollon

Bollon Heritage Centre

23 Main Street, Bollon P (07) 4625 6108

Boulia

Min Min Encounter and Visitor Information Centre

25 Herbert Street, Boulia P (07) 4746 3386

tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au

BOULIA.QLD.GOV.AU

Charleville Charleville Visitor Information Centre

Charleville Railway Station King Street, Charleville P (07) 4656 8359

info@murweh.qld.gov.au

EXPERIENCECHARLEVILLE.COM.AU

Cloncurry

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre & Museum

48 McIlwraith Street, Cloncurry P (07) 4742 1361

info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au

EXPERIENCECLONCURRY.COM

Cunnamulla

Cunnamulla Fella Centre 2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla P (07) 4655 8470

visitor@paroo.qld.gov.au

CUNNAMULLATOURISM.COM.AU

Dirranbandi

Dirranbandi Rural Transaction Centre

35-37 Railway Street, Dirranbandi P (07) 4625 8411

Hughenden

Flinders Discovery Centre & Dinosaur Display Museum 37 Gray Street, Hughenden P (07) 4741 2970

info@flinders.qld.gov.au

VISITHUGHENDEN.COM.AU

Ilfracombe

Wellshot Centre McMaster Drive, Ilfracombe P (07) 4658 2233

Knot-A-Saurus Park, Eromanga

Injune

Injune Visitor Information Centre

32 Hutton Street, Injune P (07) 4626 0503

tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au

ROMAREVEALED.COM.AU

Isisford

Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre

12 St Mary Street, Isisford P (07) 4658 8133

Jericho Jericho Tourist Information Centre

8 Darwin Street, Jericho P (07) 4651 4129

Julia Creek

‘At the Creek’ – Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre

34 Burke Street, Julia Creek P (07) 4746 7690

tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au

ATTHECREEK.COM.AU

Jundah

11 Dickson Street, Jundah P (07) 4658 6930

Longreach

Longreach Explore Centre

99a Eagle Street, Longreach P (07) 4658 4141

experience@longreach.qld.gov.au

EXPERIENCELONGREACH.COM.AU

Mitchell

Great Artesian Spa

2 Cambridge Street, Mitchell P (07) 4624 6923 mitchell.spa@outlook.com

GREATARTESIANSPA.COM.AU

Morven

Morven Information Centre

Warrgeo Highway

Mount Isa

Outback at Isa

19 Marian Street, Mount Isa P (07) 4749 1555

info@outbackatisa.com.au

DISCOVERMOUNTISA.COM.AU

Moura

Moura Visitor Information Centre

43 Gillespie Street, Moura P (07) 4992 9500

Muttaburra

Muttaburra Information Centre

16 Sword Street, Muttaburra P (07) 4658 7147

Quilpie

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery

51 Brolga Street, Quilpie P (07) 4656 0540 tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au

VISITQUILPIESHIRE.COM

Richmond

Kronosaurus Korner

91–93 Goldring Street, Richmond P (07) 4719 3390

enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

KRONOSAURUSKORNER.COM.AU

Roma

The Big Rig and Visitor Information Centre

2 Riggers Road, Roma P (07) 4624 0204 tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au ROMAREVEALED.COM.AU

St George Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre

114 Saint Georges Terrace, St George P (07) 4620 8877 vic@balonne.qld.gov.au STGEORGEREGION.COM.AU

Stonehenge Stratford Street, Stonehenge P (07) 4658 5857

Surat

Cobb & Co Changing Station

62 Burrowes Street, Surat P (07) 4626 5136

Thallon

Thallon Information Station William Street, Thallon

Tambo

Tambo Visitor Information Centre Arthur Street, Tambo P (07) 4654 6408

Taroom

Taroom Visitor Information Centre

10 Yaldwyn Street, Taroom P (07) 4628 6113

Thargomindah

Echidna Place

37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah P (07) 4621 8095

tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au EXPLOREBULLOO.COM.AU

Theodore Theodore Visitor Information Centre 55A The Blvd, Theodore P (07) 4993 1900

Wallumbilla

Calico Cottage, Warrego Highway, Wallumbilla P (07) 4623 4244

Windorah

Windorah Visitor Information Centre 7 Maryborough Street, Windorah P (07) 4656 3063

E: windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au BARCOO.QLD.GOV.AU

Winton

Waltzing Matilda Centre 50 Elderslie Street, Winton P (07) 4657 1466

waltzing@matildacentre.com.au

EXPERIENCEWINTON.COM.AU

@OutbackQueensland #outbackqueensland

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL +61 400 812 350 OR EMAIL ADMIN@OUTBACKQUEENSLAND.COM.AU OUTBACKQUEENSLAND.COM.AU